The spelling of the phrase "in quire" may seem confusing, but it is actually derived from the Latin word "inquirere", meaning "to seek". The phonetic transcription of "in quire" is /ɪn ˈkwaɪər/. The two separate words "in" and "quire" are pronounced together as one unit. As a unit, the "qui" is pronounced like "kwee", and the "re" like "ər". This spelling can be confusing because it is easy to assume that it should be spelled as "inquire", but it is important to remember its Latin origins.
"In quire" is a term commonly used in musical notation, specifically in choral scores, to indicate a section of music in which voices or instruments are divided into multiple groups or parts. It represents the division of a choir or ensemble into several smaller groups, often referred to as "choirs" or "choruses," each assigned specific musical lines.
This musical direction is denoted by the words "in quire" or the abbreviation "in ch." in the context of a score. It signifies that the various sections of the ensemble are intended to sing or play distinct musical lines simultaneously, resulting in a multi-layered texture that adds depth and richness to the composition.
When a section is instructed to perform "in quire," it implies that the different groups should be spaced out, either physically or virtually, within the performance area. This spatial distribution allows for the distinct musical lines to be clearly heard and distinguished.
While "in quire" is predominantly used in choral music, it can also be applied to instrumental ensembles when multiple sections are instructed to play different parts. This technique enables composers to create complex and harmonically diverse compositions by exploiting the individual capabilities and timbres of each section or group.
Overall, "in quire" is a significant notation instruction that highlights the division and simultaneous performance of voices or instruments in separate groups, resulting in a polyphonic and textured musical composition.
The word "inquire" comes from the Latin word "inquirere", which is derived from the combination of the preposition "in" (meaning "into" or "towards") and the verb "quaerere" (meaning "to seek" or "to ask"). The Latin word "inquirere" evolved into "enqueren" in Old French, and later transformed into "enquire" in Middle English. Eventually, the spelling shifted to "inquire" in Modern English. The term "in quire" is not typically used as a separate word or phrase, but rather as a combination of "in" and "quire" (meaning "a group of sheets of paper folded together to form a book").