2.1.4 Articulations and dynamics
Articulations and dynamics are indicated by adding special codes after the notes to which they apply,
Articulations
Music Glossary: articulation.
Common articulations can be added to a note using a
dash - and a single character:
\relative {
c''4-^ c-+ c-- c-!
c4-> c-. c2-_
}
Fingerings
Music Glossary: fingering.
Similarly, fingering indications can be added to a note
using a dash (-) and the digit to be printed:
\relative { c''4-3 e-5 b-2 a-1 }
Articulations and fingerings are usually placed automatically, but
you can specify a direction by replacing the dash (-) with
^ (up) or _ (down). You can also use multiple
articulations on the same note. However, in most cases it is best
to let LilyPond determine the articulation directions.
\relative { c''4_-^1 d^. f^4_2-> e^-_+ }
Dynamics
Music Glossary: dynamics, crescendo, decrescendo.
Dynamic signs are made by adding the markings (with a backslash) to the note:
\relative { c''4\ff c\mf c\p c\pp }
Crescendi and decrescendi are started with
the commands \< and \>. The next dynamics sign, for
example \f, will end the (de)crescendo, or the command
\! can be used:
\relative { c''4\< c\ff\> c c\! }
See also
Notation Reference: Articulations and ornamentations, Fingering instructions, Dynamics.