A note about hyphenation in vocal scores

      Because of early text printing limitations, the method of hyphenation in vocal scores has long been to insert one or more hyphens between the syllables of a word.
    Also, if the final syllable is sung on more than one note, an underscored line encompassing the notes is used in the following manner:

    Now that printing techniques allow much greater flexibility it seems to be more logical and practical to insert extended, thinner hyphens between the syllables and to use slurs to indicate notes to be sung on one syllable.

    This method has the advantage, especially in liturgical music where the sense and understanding of the words is important, of linking the syllables for instant word recognition.
    Phrase signs or slurs should only be used to indicate two or more notes sung to one syllable since the word sense implies its own phrasing.
    Choristers have adapted to this system readily and, because the words are readily recognisable, are able to concentrate on the music to which they are set more effectively.
    Your comments on the changes suggested are most welcome

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