The Meaning of Dash in Music
In music notation, a dash is a mark that represents an articulation directive for musical notation. It is typically a vertical dash placed above a note The specific meaning of the dash can vary depending on its context and the musical style being played.
One common interpretation of the dash symbol is as a tenuto marking. Tenuto is an Italian musical phrase or marking that means "to hold" When a dash is placed above a note, it indicates that the note should be played with emphasis or sustained for its full value. It is often used to indicate that a note should be played slightly longer or with more weight than surrounding notes. The exact interpretation of the dash may also be affected by other markings or symbols that appear in conjunction with it.
It's worth noting that the terminology for this symbol can vary. While some sources refer to it as a "dash" others use the term "tenuto" Additionally, it may also be called "Dtach port" or "Portato/lour" when slurred.
1. A mark that represents an articulation directive for musical notation. If there is a vertical dash above a note, it is an indication to the performer to play that note staccato; generally the dash implies a shorter, more accented staccato than the dot.
2. A mark that represents an articulation directive for musical notation. If there is a horizontal dash above a note, it indicates that the performer should sustain the note for its full length (tenuto).
3. If a horizontal dash appears in a figured bass part, it indicates that the preceding harmony is to be continued.
Leave a Reply