Redistribution in Hymn Playing

Alto and Tenor Share Common Tones

The alto and tenor parts frequently sound the same note. These “common tones” appear in two forms:

• they appear at the same time (see upper right, “Duke Street”)
• one appears immediately following the other (see lower right, “Dennis”)

In the first case, where they appear at the same time, the hand that can play the note most easily should do so. Cross out the note in the other part to avoid playing the key with both hands at the same time.

In the second case, where one note appears immediately following the other, the left hand and the lower part of the right hand share the same range of notes. You can save motion by playing the alto note with, in this case, the left hand both times.

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Click below if you need to review the meaning of the markings as taught in the “Score Preparation” lesson.

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