Which is the recommended layout for “Theme and variations”?
One flow with a system break for each variation?
Several flows (for the theme and for each variation) with staff indent and staff labels displayed at each variation?
If I input it as #2, can I get Dorico to format it as it looks like #1 or must I then merge flows into one? If the latter, how do I merge flows into one single flow in a project?
One argument for using flows for Theme and Variations: the header at the top of the page can automatically show which variation you’re on, based on the current flow.
I understand that cautionary time signatures cannot be hidden within a piece and that variations are typically(?) not engraved with cautionary time signatures (if a time signature change is made) so that would mean that flows are the only option, but then I cannot get rid of the indent and the staff labels (since I need it on the very first system).
Are there any set rules on how a Theme and variations “should” look?
Why can’t you? If you put a system break, you can click on the sign post and then decide whether or not you want full, abbreviated, or no staff labels.