Cue note

In musical notation, a cue note is or cue notes are indications informing players, "of important passages being played by other instruments, such as an entrance after a long period of rest.

"[1] A cue may also function as a guideline for another instrument for musical improvisation or if there are many bars rest to help the performer find where to come in.

"[2] The cued instrument is indicated with text and the cue notes are smaller than the rest.

[1] In orchestral and wind ensemble music, cues may appear in the part of an instrument expected to cover the part if the original instrument is absent or not represented.

For example, in the absence of a tenor tuba, important passages or solos may be covered by a trombone or horn, and these passages may be written in their parts as cues in expectation of such a possibility.