Your query about diagram of a .ly file

[Gordon Gilbert]

Hi!

I'm likewise a non-geek who has appreciated lilypond for what it can do 
for me.  I have been transcribing hymns and worship songs for somewhat 
over a year now, and really enjoying it.

What I've found works best, for those of us who don't understand all the 
syntax and other features of the files is to use a template.  I have three 
basic formats I use:

Hymn format, with words between the treble and bass staves
Hymn-with-chords format, the same but with chord symbols on top
Lead sheet format, a melody line with words underneath and chords on top

I found some samples on the lilypond web-site, and also on 
http://mutopiaproject.org/, downloaded them, and changed all the variables 
one by one.  That is, I saved the file as a name I wanted, removed their 
notes, and replaced them with mine, removed the words and replaced them, 
and removed the chords, and replaced them.  Each time I made a change, I 
would compile the piece, making sure it would work with each minor change. 
I also keep some features of the syntax, commented out with % so I can use 
them later if I need to (number of stanzas, etc.)

Now, any time I have a new piece I want to enter, I pick a similar one 
from my stock and "save as" and go from there as I described above.  It 
works very well, because you are only making small changes each time.

Also, if you can download and install jEdit, it has lilypond mode, where 
the .ly file syntax is coloured to help show you what is what.  (That 
still doesn't mean I know all about it, but I *can* find a missing { or " 
or whatever.)

Hope this helps.

Blessings,

Father Gordon Gilbert


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