Re: strict notespacing with lyrics

[Kieren MacMillan]

Abraham,

> So, the real question is this: can we make LyricText.self-alignment-X dynamic 
> instead of static? In other words, can we use a springs-like mechanism 
> between LyricText syllables, but that are more flexible than the 
> springs-and-rods between NoteColumns? That way, the NoteColumns would more 
> likely get into their normal rhythmic positions and the LyricText grobs could 
> float horizontally a bit, pushing each other around within their -1 to 1 
> self-alignment-X range.

This sounds really familiar…  ;)

> Looking forward to everyone's thoughts on the matter.

Love the basic idea — now let’s polish it, and implement it!

1. There should be a way to “group” a set of notes [with attached lyrics] — 
from 2 adjacent notes all the way up to “the whole score” — and then set the 
rigidity of the note-springs and lyric-springs as separate parameters.

2. There should be a parameter for how much “flex" the block has. Say you set 
notes.spring-rigidity = #1, so that Lilypond forces the notes to be “in perfect 
proportion” (essentially ignoring the lyrics). If the block of lyrics 
underneath are (e.g.) twice as wide as the set of notes, it would be nice for 
Lilypond to take that into account. Naively: perhaps Lily should try to compute 
the minimum amount of horizontal space required for the associated lyrics, and 
use that width as a ‘frame’ in which the notes are then distributed “perfectly”?

Looking forward to seeing where this goes!
Kieren.
________________________________

Kieren MacMillan, composer
‣ website: www.kierenmacmillan.info
‣ email: address@hidden