Staccato and Tenuto

In Reading Music, Vol. 18, we explore two articulation markings: staccato and tenuto. Articulation marks tell performers how notes should be played. Even when the written pitches are identical, these two markings can give a phrase a very different character. Listen to the examples as you read.

Staccato

Staccato is shown by a small dot above or below the notehead.

Staccato means to play the note short and detached.

Listen to this example:

Now compare that sound with tenuto.

Tenuto

Tenuto is indicated by a short horizontal line above or below the notehead.

Tenuto asks you to sustain the note for its full value, giving it appropriate weight.

Listen to the second example:

The pitches are the same, but the dot and the short line lead to noticeably different interpretations.

Understanding articulation helps you recognize what the composer or arranger intends. It also allows you to communicate your own musical ideas more precisely when you write music. Even if you learned these signs at school, reviewing them is worthwhile.