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An "ossia" is the road not taken—until it is. It represents a composer’s second thought, a lighter touch, or a more complex flourish that exists alongside the original.

A lighter leap, a swifter run,A melody that’s just begun.It doesn’t replace what went before,It simply opens one more door. ossia_s05_0061_l.jpg

The ink is dry upon the main,A steady march of sun and rain.But hovering above the staff,Is the shadow of a different path. An "ossia" is the road not taken—until it is