Dal Segno
Definition. From the sign — repeat from the segno marker. Abbreviated *D.S.*
Detailed Explanation
Dal segno, abbreviated D.S., is Italian for ‘from the sign’. As a notation direction it instructs the performer to repeat the music from the segno (𝄋) marker — a specific point in the score, not necessarily the beginning.
The segno marker (the symbol 𝄋, an ornate S with two diagonal lines) appears earlier in the score where the repeat should start from. When the performer reaches a D.S. direction, they jump back to the segno and play forward from there.
Like da capo, dal segno usually has additional qualifying instructions: D.S. al fine (from the sign, to fine), D.S. al coda (from the sign, to the coda symbol, then jump to coda). The marking allows composers to repeat selected portions of the music without repeating the entire opening — useful for shorter or partial recapitulations.
Etymology
Italian, ‘from the sign’ — dal (‘from the’) + segno (‘sign’), from Latin signum.
In Practice
When you see D.S., look back through the score for the segno (𝄋) symbol. Jump to that point and continue playing forward from there.
Notable Examples
- Various — Common in popular and theatre music (frequent use)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Dal Segno mean in music?
From the sign — repeat from the segno marker. Abbreviated D.S.
Where does the word Dal Segno come from?
Italian, ‘from the sign’ — dal (‘from the’) + segno (‘sign’), from Latin signum.
How is Dal Segno performed in practice?
When you see D.S., look back through the score for the segno (𝄋) symbol. Jump to that point and continue playing forward from there.
What are common abbreviations for Dal Segno?
Dal Segno is commonly abbreviated as D.S..
What musical terms are related to Dal Segno?
Related terms include: Da Capo, D.S. al Coda, Segno, Fine.
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