Flexible note entry position

Your idea

Flexible note entry (similar to the dynamics anchor position introduced in v4.4) could facilitate faster workflows. Currently in v4.4.3, we need to input multiple rests (with various durations) to enter notes later in the bar. With flexible note entry, we could place notes directly at the desired location and MSS could calculate pre/post rests automatically.

Problem to be solved

Entering notes at positions in the bar other than the beginning of beat 1 requires additional rests to get to the desired beat/sub-division in the bar. This UX can be improved allowing the user to focus on the primary task (entering notes).

Prior art

Dorico's caret allows for various placement during note entry.

Additional context

Flexible behavior could be activated via a modifier key (shift or alt/opt) during note entry, or could facilitate dragging notes to other positions in the bar or other bars.

It should be aware of the bar's time signature, existing elements in the bar, and the selected note duration for entry. For example, in an empty bar of 4/4 with quarter notes set for entry, the bar should divide into 4 shaded columns. If eighth notes were selected, the bar should divide into 8 shaded columns.

Checklist

• This request follows the guidelines for reporting issues
• I have verified that this feature request has not been logged before, by searching the issue tracker for similar requests

The issue names no files, tests, or entry points. Start by locating the existing note-entry and dynamics-anchor implementations, then identify related tests; done should cover direct placement with automatic rests while respecting time signatures, existing elements, and the selected note duration.