Editing Swing Notation |
A swing rhythm, when literally written out as two unequal members of a triplet, looks like this: In a jazz or "big band" music style, swing rhythms are typically not written out using triplets, such as in the above example. Instead, to simplify the notation, the swing rhythm is notated as though the notes are evenly played, with equal durations. The above as-performed notes are usually notated like this: You can prepare a swing that will be heard with a triplet swing, but displayed with paired notes of equal durations. If you are importing a MIDI file for a jazz or "big band" piece with a swing rhythm, then choose the "Swing Rhythm" transcription option. Composer will automatically notate the swing rhythms as illustrated in the above second example. Similarly, if you are recording swing rhythms at your music keyboard, then choose the "Swing Rhythm" transcription option. To "write out" a swing rhythm, as in the first of the above two examples:
-- OR -- Type "3s" for triplet swing.
-- OR -- Type "33" for triplet.
To add a swing rhythm that will be performed with the swing, but which will be displayed as a pair of equal duration notes:
-- OR -- Type SHIFT+Y. Composer will display the Piano Roll Palette.
-- OR -- Type "an" for as-notated.
All of the selected swing notes will now be displayed as paired notes of equal durations. The Piano Roll rectangles indicate that the performance of the second note of each pair occurs after its as-notated location. Thus, when the notes are played, you still hear the swing. |