Quaver in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “quaver” in BSL refers to a musical note that is played for a short duration, often associated with lively or upbeat music. It’s commonly used when discussing music, performances, or even in casual conversations about songs within the Deaf community in the UK.

How to Sign “Quaver” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape, fingers extended and together, palm facing down.
2. Position your hand in front of your body, around waist height.
3. Make a quick, upward flicking motion with your wrist to represent the lively nature of a quaver.
4. As you perform the flick, raise your eyebrows to add emphasis and convey excitement.
5. Return your hand to the starting position to complete the sign, ensuring your facial expression remains animated.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the non-manual features, such as facial expressions, which can affect the meaning.
• Using a flat hand when a flicking motion is required, which can make the sign unclear.
• Not positioning the hand correctly in relation to the body, which can lead to confusion about the sign’s intent.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “quaver” involves a flicking motion that captures the lively essence of the note. In contrast, ASL uses a different handshape and movement, often focusing more on the musical aspect rather than the note’s duration. This highlights the unique characteristics of each sign language.

Related Signs

• Music – The general sign for music, often used in discussions about songs.
• Note – Refers to a musical note, used in various musical contexts.
• Song – Used when talking about a specific piece of music or performance.
• Dance – Related to musical expression and performances.
• Beat – Refers to the rhythm in music, closely related to the concept of a quaver.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “quaver” in a BSL sentence?

You might say, “I love the quaver in this song,” by signing ‘I love’ followed by the sign for ‘quaver’ and the sign for ‘song.’

Are there regional variations in signing “quaver”?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional variations may exist in handshape or movement. It’s always good to learn from local signers.

What are some similar signs to “quaver”?

Signs like ‘note’ and ‘beat’ are related and often used together in discussions about music.

Any tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your hand shape and facial expressions match the lively nature of the sign.

Is “quaver” used in formal music discussions?

Yes, the sign can be used in both casual and formal contexts when discussing music theory or performances.

How does “quaver” fit into music discussions?

The sign is often used to highlight specific musical notes or to describe the tempo and feel of a piece.