Topmusicanswers
Typically, composers notate a trill by writing the letters "tr" directly above the principle note. Sometimes the "tr" is accompanied by a wavy line. Some trill notation consists of only a squiggly line and no "tr" sign at all.
What note do you trill to?
In standard notation, a trill means you should alternate the written pitch with the note a step higher in the key. So in D major a trill on D would go to E natural but in Bb Major a trill on D would go to Eb.
What is a trill mark?
A trill or 'shake' symbol indicates that you should alternate between the given note (the principal note) and the note above it (the auxiliary note) quickly and repeatedly. It's like a mordent but you alternate a lot more times.
Does Tr mean trill?
"tr" stands for trill, indicating that the note it is associated with should be rapidly alternated with the note in the scale above it (within the duration indicated). The execution of "tr" is left to the performer. If it is of some duration, it might be ended with a turn.
