Page 1 of 1

Sheet Music Dimensions

Posted: Fri Nov 05, 2004 8:52 pm
by Mark
Just curious about the dimensions you prefere for sheet music.

Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2004 1:59 pm
by BVD Press
As a music publisher, I go with strictly 8.5x11 or 11x17.

I had many complaints about the larger sizes not fitting into file cabinets.

Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2004 2:19 pm
by LOTP
I like to keep music for a performance--especially in a chamber group--in a 3-ring binder using clear sheet protectors. These are generally available only in 8.5x11 (my day job is with a large office supply company). When preparing my own arrangements for use, the "standard" 8.5x11 makes much more sense since this is what almost all copiers use.

Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2004 2:26 pm
by BVD Press
makes much more sense since this is what almost all copiers use.
I know you said your own music, but this is may be why some publishers use the larger sheets. Trying to avoid the copy machines. Although anything can be reduced!

I like the binders as well. I stick the music is the plastic sleeves and it is impossible to for the 9x12 in them!

Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2004 4:56 pm
by Mark
BVD Press wrote:As a music publisher, I go with strictly 8.5x11 or 11x17.
I actually don't have a strong preference, as long as the music is readable.

My biggest problem iwith 8.5 x 11 is that some publishers squeeze too music music onto the page, making it very difficult to read.

Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2004 9:46 pm
by BVD Press
I actually don't have a strong preference, as long as the music is readable.
Always the number one goal!!!!

I do a lot of engraving work and the size is always a struggle. If you can't read it, make it bagger and add a page or two. The few extra pennies to print another sheet will not hurt the wallet too much. The pain of not getting rehired hurts much more!

Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2004 11:13 pm
by BVD Press
I hate this, and I hate people who do this.
I do it for just the XMas charts.

Do you hate that too?

It sure beats having to fill and then empty the folder every December! Just grab the book and we are off!!

Posted: Sun Nov 07, 2004 12:20 am
by Dan Schultz
LOTP wrote:I like to keep music for a performance--especially in a chamber group--in a 3-ring binder using clear sheet protectors. These are generally available only in 8.5x11 (my day job is with a large office supply company). When preparing my own arrangements for use, the "standard" 8.5x11 makes much more sense since this is what almost all copiers use.
I totally agree with you. If the publishers put the music out in this format... I wouldn't need to violate the copyright laws! I don't mind buying music if I can find what I want in a format that is useful.

Posted: Mon Nov 08, 2004 4:40 pm
by LOTP
Regarding the rather poor showing in the poll for marching-size music:
Marching music is held MUCH closer to the face. I just measured my two parade horns...Courtois upright Eb--11 inches mouthpiece to music.....Suzi--10.5 inches. Anything over 5x7 would be impractical.
When playing from a music stand the distance is about 30 inches. The same page would have to be about 15x21 to occupy the same field of vision.

Paul