In musical notation, tenuto (Italian for "held") indicates that a note should be played for its full value, or slightly longer. It essentially means to sustain the note. It's represented by a short horizontal line above or below the note.
The use of tenuto markings can be traced back to the Baroque period, though its interpretation has evolved. Originally, it primarily indicated sustaining the note. Later, composers began using it to also indicate a slight emphasis on the note's beginning. Therefore, context matters!
Imagine a simple melody in 4/4 time. Let's say you have a quarter note 'C' with a tenuto marking. You would hold that 'C' for the full beat. If it's followed by another note, you wouldn't rush the transition.
Here's another example in a legato passage: without the tenuto mark, a note might blend smoothly into the next. The tenuto, even while sustaining the note, will create a clearer separation between them. This enhances articulation without sounding staccato.
The execution of tenuto varies slightly depending on the instrument:
| Instrument | Execution |
|---|---|
| Piano | Hold the key for the full duration and apply a slight pressure at the beginning. |
| Strings | Sustain the bow stroke for the full value, possibly with a slight increase in pressure at the attack. |
| Wind Instruments | Maintain consistent air support throughout the note's duration and articulate clearly at the start. |
Understanding tenuto adds depth and nuance to your musical performance. By paying attention to the context and applying the principles of full value and gentle emphasis, you can effectively interpret this important musical marking. Good luck!
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