Help! Anyone who reads music...

Patty

Patty

Immortal
what does ", " (it looks like a comma high up) mean above a stave of music? I am struggling (and I do mean struggling) to learn to play some Christmas carols this season, and I'm trying to play "Some Children See Him". I came across this sign on the note just before the last bar of music. It's not one of the accidentals, and I've never seen it before. I wouldn't be able to play this beautiful song if I didn't already know how it's supposed to go. Sometimes I feel like I should just admit I have no talent and give up, but I love playing the piano so.
 
I would guess it's a slight pause. If it were a wind instrument playing, maybe they would take a breath there. But it's been a long time since high school orchestra; I mostly play by ear now. Someone else may have more information.
 
it comes right after a fermata. It's up there where it is, too. And fits in with how the song goes. Thanks Dora. Oh, and, I mailed you a little something this morning, with my thanks.
 
That's what my piano teacher says, anyway.

With vocal music or wind instruments, I think it literally is an indication that it's a good place to take a breath. When playing the piano, treat it as an indication of phrasing - and if you consciously take a breath there, you're more inclined to introduce the tiny pause that will shape the phrase appropriately.
 
meant to be sung![laugh] I wish more vocal sheet music would have this indicator.

Thanks Aunt Dora and Kimi.
 
I'm familiar with that carol! Our choir sings it in phrases, taking a very brief pause, both with vocals and instruments, at several places where there's a comma or period, making it sound more like it's being recited than sung (I hope that makes sense!).

And you don't have "no talent"! If the piano music seems a bit unwieldy, don't hesitate to omit notes here and there, concentrating on the melody and chords. After all, it's the melodies that people want to hear, and sing along with!
 
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