Simple repeats

This is the syntax for a repeat without variation:

\repeat volta repeatcount musicexpr

where musicexpr is the music expression to be repeated.

\fixed c'' {
  \repeat volta 2 { c2 f }
  R1
  \repeat volta 2 { g2 c }
}

By default, a starting bar line is not automatically printed at the beginning of a piece, in accordance with classical engraving conventions. However, in some contexts, these bar lines are traditionally added, such as in lead sheets for jazz standards. This can be achieved by setting the printInitialRepeatBar property.

\fixed c'' {
  \set Score.printInitialRepeatBar = ##t
  \repeat volta 2 { c2 f }
}

A repeated section that starts in the middle of a measure usually ends at the same position in a later measure so that the two ends make a complete measure. The repeat bar lines are not measure boundaries in such cases, so no bar checks should be placed there. Likewise, no \partial command should be placed within the repeated music, because the measures are complete; however, a \partial command should be placed before the repeat when there is a truly incomplete measure the first time through.

\fixed c'' {
  \partial 4
  \repeat volta 2 {
    c4
    c2 d
    g4 g g
  }
  \repeat volta 2 {
    e4
    f2 g
    c2.
  }
}

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LilyPond Notation Reference v2.25.15 (development-branch).