Typically, Swing applies to one note value smaller than the original time signature. This means, for example, that in 4/4 time Finale will swing eighth notes.
Since cut time technically has a time signature of 2/2, the Swing function would default to swinging quarter notes on playback. For users expecting traditional eighth note swing, this result may seem erratic.
To maintain the traditional eighth-note swing in cut time, you will need to set the playback time signature to 4/4, then change the displayed time signature to cut time:
- With the Time Signature tool selected, double-click on the measure you want the swing to start in. The Time Signature dialog box appears.
- Change the Number of Beats to 4 and the Beat Duration to a quarter note.
- Click More Options in the upper right corner of the dialog box.
- Select Use a Different Time Signature for Display.
- Set the Number of Beats in the bottom portion of the dialog box to 2 and the Note Duration to a half note.
- Click OK to confirm the time signature change.
Once these changes have been applied, the eighth notes will swing with the time signature showing the cut time signature.
For more information on enabling swing playback via Expressions, see Alternating Between Swing Rhythms and Straight Rhythms.