Repeat Signs & Directions

Understand repeats, codas, and navigation symbols in music.

Repeat Signs

Repeat Signs

Enclose a passage to be played more than once. If no opening repeat appears, return to the beginning.

Simile Marks

Simile Marks

Indicate repetition of the previous measure or previous two measures.

Volta Brackets

Volta Brackets

Different endings for repeated sections (1st time, 2nd time, etc.).

Da Capo

Da Capo (D.C.)

Return to the beginning. Often followed by al Fine or al Coda.

Dal Segno

Dal Segno (D.S.)

Repeat from the nearest segno sign.

Segno

Segno

Reference symbol used with Dal Segno instructions.

Coda

Coda

Jump forward to the ending section when instructed by D.C. al Coda or D.S. al Coda.