Tenuto
To hold a tone or chord firmly to its full value
"Tenuto" is a musical term that refers to a specific way of performing a note or a group of notes. When a note or a group of notes is marked as Tenuto, it means that the performer should sustain them for their full value and give them emphasis.
Tenuto indicates that the notes should be played with the correct duration and receive adequate time value. This means that the notes should not be cut short or excessively prolonged. The performer needs to give these notes the appropriate sustained pressure to ensure their full duration is preserved and maintain stability and balance throughout the entire duration of the note.
Tenuto can also be represented by a symbol in conducting or sheet music. The symbol is often a horizontal line placed above or below the note. This symbol serves as a reminder for the performer to give these notes the appropriate sustained pressure and emphasis while playing them.
Example of Tenuto
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Common Practice Guide
