I'm an adult beginner. I have a simple question. There are 2 figure numbers on one note. How do I play the note? For example, note E has figure number 2 and then number figure 3 is printed right under it. Do I suppose to press the key by using fingure number 2 and while holding it replacing it with fingure 3?

Thanks.

-- Beginner (noname_poster@yahoo.com), May 12, 2001

Answers

Dear beginner, Generally if one finger is supposed to replace another (a "silent switch") it would be written as 2-3 (or whatever finger numbers are involved.) It's hard to say for sure without seeing your music, but it sounds like the arranger is suggesting that you can choose either finger 2 or finger 3 (although generally one of the numbers would be in parentheses in this case). Would this make sense for this spot in the song?

-- annie (noname_poster@yahoo.com), May 16, 2001.

I think that when one finger # is under another finger #, it means you have a choice; usually the alternate finger # is in parentheses.

When a finger switch is called for (i.e., using the 1st finger # indicated, then while holding it down replacing it with the 2nd finger #), the 2 finger #'s are written side by side, not one on top of another.

Hope this helps.

-- Music Educator (noname_poster@yahoo.com), May 17, 2001.