A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Presa

by William Smyth Rockstro

PRESA (literally, 'a Taking'). A sign, used to indicate the places at which the Guida (or Subject) of a Canon is to be taken up by the several Voices.

The following are the forms most frequently adopted:—

·S·∶S∶·Ṩ·🞢※

In the famous 'Enimme,' or Enigmatical Canons, of the 15th and 16th centuries, an Inscription is usually substituted for the Presa, though in many cases even this is wanting, and the Singer is left without assistance, [See Inscription.]

[ W. S. R. ]