Double Note Stems

On some music, the pick up note will have a note stem going up as well as down on the same note. Why does it do this?
ANSWER

Notes that have double stems are called "polyphonic" notes. The double stem indicates that the note is part of two different voices.

Music is divided into "voices" or parts. A lot of the time, there are only two voices--melody and accompaniment. Sometimes there are more than 2 voices and each hand may play more than one voice.

If I could see the music, I could tell you more.

This is also why you will see rests in the upper or lower right hand while other notes are being played with the right hand.

If you have any more questions about this, let me know--I will be happy to help.

Best Wishes!
Lynne