Which term is associated with playing notes at a shortened duration?

Which term is associated with playing notes at a shortened duration?

• A. Staccato
• B. Legato
• C. Fermata
• D. Accelerando

Answer: (A)

The term associated with playing notes at a shortened duration is staccato. Staccato is a musical articulation marking that instructs the performer to play the notes in a short and detached manner. This technique creates a distinct separation between the notes, making them sound crisp and lively. Musicians achieve this effect by reducing the length of each note, typically played for about half of its written duration. In contrast, legato refers to playing notes smoothly and connected, creating a flowing and melodic line. Fermata indicates that a note should be held longer than its typical duration, often used to add emphasis or a dramatic pause. Accelerando signifies a gradual increase in the tempo of the music, encouraging a faster pace but does not pertain to the duration of individual notes in the way staccato does. Understanding these terms is essential for interpreting and performing music accurately.

The term associated with playing notes at a shortened duration is staccato. Staccato is a musical articulation marking that instructs the performer to play the notes in a short and detached manner. This technique creates a distinct separation between the notes, making them sound crisp and lively. Musicians achieve this effect by reducing the length of each note, typically played for about half of its written duration.

In contrast, legato refers to playing notes smoothly and connected, creating a flowing and melodic line. Fermata indicates that a note should be held longer than its typical duration, often used to add emphasis or a dramatic pause. Accelerando signifies a gradual increase in the tempo of the music, encouraging a faster pace but does not pertain to the duration of individual notes in the way staccato does. Understanding these terms is essential for interpreting and performing music accurately.