Right hand

As Printed on a Score

Printed over notes in piano music (R.H., r.h., right hand) to give them to the right hand, typically where the hands cross or the right hand takes notes on the lower staff; it applies to the notes it marks.

Abbreviations: R.H., r.h., R. H.

How Composers Use It

Mark the right hand where staff position suggests the wrong hand, in crossing passages where the choice affects phrasing and balance, and where the right hand reaches into the lower staff to help the left. Italian and French scores print m.d., German ones r.H.; choose one convention for the whole piece and keep to it.

Example

Warlock, Peterisms (first set), “Rutterkin”, piano, m. 10: “R.H.” and “L.H.” are printed in the same bar to divide the notes between the hands.

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