The Italian musical term espressivo is an indication to play expressively, and may also encourage physical expression by the performer. Espressivo allows a performer to convey the mood of a musical composition by taking slight liberties with its articulation and dynamics.
What does a sostenuto mean?
Definition of sostenuto
(Entry 1 of 2) : sustained to or beyond the note’s full value —used as a direction in music.
What is a subito?
Definition of subito
: immediately, suddenly —used as a direction in music.
What is the meaning of Con Brio in music?
Definition of con brio
: in a vigorous or brisk manner —often used as a direction in music.
What does Vivace mean in music?
: in a brisk spirited manner —used as a direction in music.
What is poco music?
Definition of poco
: to a slight degree : somewhat —used to qualify a direction in music poco allegro.
What is Cantando in music?
For 18th-century composers, cantabile is often synonymous with “cantando” (singing) and indicates a measured tempo and flexible, legato playing. For later composers, particularly in piano music, cantabile is the drawing out of one particular musical line against the accompaniment (compare counterpoint).
What does legato mean in music terms?
The musical term “legato” is a direction in sheet music. It indicates that a passage should be played “smoothly and connected,” so that the melody flows together. On a musical staff, curved lines known as slurs connect differently pitched notes to indicate this style of play.
What does leggiero mean in music?
Definition of leggiero
: lightly, gracefully —used as a direction in music.
What is giocoso in music?
Definition of giocoso
: lively, humorous —used chiefly as a direction in music.
What does Doloroso mean in music?
Definition of doloroso
: sorrowful —used as a direction in music.
What is a tutti in music?
Definition of tutti
(Entry 1 of 2) : with all voices or instruments performing together —used as a direction in music.
What does Divisi mean in music?
Definition of divisi
: separate —used as a direction in music for orchestral players reading the same musical staff to divide into two or more voice parts —abbreviation div.
What does Sfz mean in piano?
[Italian] A directive to perform the indicated note or chord of a composition with particular emphasis. The note or chord would be performed as if it had an accent as shown below and performed at the dynamic level indicated. It is typically shown as the abbreviation, sfz, sffz, or sfffz.
What is Stringendo music?
Definition of stringendo
: with quickening of tempo (as to a climax) —used as a direction in music.
