Page and Staff Sizes for Orchestral, Concert Band, and Choral Music

Orchestral and Concert Band Music

Full Score

Page Size:

  - In North America: At least 9 x 12 inches, but no larger than 11 x 17 inches.

  - In Europe: Either B4 JIS (257 x 364 mm) or A3 (297 x 420 mm).

Staff Size: The minimum legible staff size for scores is 4 mm (measured from the bottom to the top of each staff), with note heads large enough for the conductor to read with ease at the podium.

Parts

Page Size:

  - In North America: At least 9 x 12 inches, but no larger than 11 x 14 inches.

  - If using A and B JIS paper formats: No smaller than A4 but no larger than B4 (B4 is the most common size).

Staff Size: The most readable staff size for all instruments is 7.5 mm (measured from the bottom to the top of the staff). However, 7.0 mm may be readable for winds, but less so for strings because they share a stand. Anything smaller than 7.0 mm is unacceptable, and anything larger than 8.5 mm should be avoided.

Choral Music

Full Score and Parts

Page Size: Generally similar to orchestral and concert band music, but it may vary depending on the publisher's specific requirements. Commonly, choral scores are printed in octavo size (6.75 x 10.5 inches) or A4 size.

Staff Size: Choral music often uses a slightly smaller staff size compared to orchestral music, but it should still be large enough to ensure readability. A range of 6.5 mm to 7.0 mm is often suitable.

General Considerations

Visibility and Legibility: Always prioritize readability and ease of performance when choosing staff and page sizes.

Consistency: Ensure that the staff size and layout are consistent throughout the score and parts.

Customization: Some modifications might be necessary based on the specific needs of the music or the performers.