Simile

What it means

Simile is Italian for “similarly.” The instruction asks that a previously indicated manner of playing be continued in the same way, without it having to be written out again in the score.

In the notation

Simile appears as a word, usually abbreviated “sim.,” above or below the staff after the desired manner has been written out for a few notes. It can refer to articulation, slurs, bowings, fingerings, pedal use, or dynamics.

Musical use

The instruction saves space and effort, especially in accompaniment parts with unchanging figures. It matters that the initial manner is unambiguous; if the music changes, a new marking should follow.

Simile should be distinguished from repeat signs, which call for replaying whole bars or sections, whereas simile only carries forward the manner of execution, not the notes themselves.

Performance practice

Before a simile, read carefully which manner of playing is meant and apply it consistently to the following notes. Take care that musical changes such as a new chord or rhythm are not overlooked in the process.