The phrase "let vibrate" or "let ring" in music notation refers to allowing the sound from plucked or struck instruments to continue resonating instead of being quickly dampened. This produces a sustained and harmonic effect.
For example, on a harp, piano or percussion instrument like cymbals, when notes are played with let vibrate indicated, the strings or instrument are allowed to continue vibrating without being silenced through the usual techniques. This creates a lingering and blending of tones that gradually decay over time.
Let vibrate is typically notated using the French words "Laissez vibrer" written as "l.v." above or below the staff. It can also be indicated using ties connecting notes to empty space or rests, with or without a specified duration for how long to let the notes vibrate.
A directive to the performer of a harp, piano, cymbal, or other struck or plucked instrument that the sound should not be damped or stopped after the initial attack, but the sound should be allowed to die away naturally. This is often indicated by the abbreviation "l.v." Let vibrate can also be indicated by a tie symbol that does not connect to another note. The tie symbol will continues out past the end of the note, indicating that the sound should continue past the indicated duration of the note. It is generally up to the discretion of the performer to determine if the sound should be damped.
In addition, you can familiarize yourself with the terms:
- [Abbreviation] l.v.
- [French] laissez vibrer
- [German] klingen lassen
- [Italian] lasciare vibrare
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