How to just start with empty bars, no “Tacet” or multi-bar rest?
The multi bar rests are enabled by default in parts layouts. To disable them: Layout Options > Players > Bar Rests and Multi-ber Rests > Consolidate > None.
You must select in the right hand column of the dialog the layout(s) where you want this option to apply.
Spencer, if you start from blank in Dorico, there will be no rests. I know, people like to start with adding time signature and specify a certain amount of bars/measures before starting to compose, but that’s actually not necessary in Dorico.