Rubato Playing: A musical technique where the tempo is subtly adjusted for expressive purposes, allowing for flexibility in timing by slowing down or speeding up passages.

Context and Significance

Rubato is integral to expressive performance, particularly in Romantic and classical music. It allows musicians to infuse emotion by altering tempo without changing the overall pace. This technique is commonly used in piano and string performances, enabling artists to emphasize emotional peaks and create dynamic contrasts. Rubato requires a deep understanding of the music, as it involves intuitive timing adjustments that maintain the piece’s structural integrity.

Historical Background

The term “”rubato”” comes from the Italian word for “”robbed,”” reflecting the concept of “”stealing”” time. It gained prominence during the Romantic era, as composers like Chopin and Liszt used it to enhance expressiveness. Historically, rubato was often employed in vocal music to mirror the natural ebb and flow of spoken language. Its use has evolved, becoming a staple in solo and orchestral performances for adding depth and emotion.

Examples

In Chopin’s Nocturnes, rubato is frequently employed to enhance lyrical passages, adding a sense of longing and introspection. Liszt’s piano compositions also showcase rubato, where tempo fluctuations heighten dramatic effect. Notable performers like Vladimir Horowitz and Arthur Rubinstein are celebrated for their masterful rubato, which brings a unique interpretation to classical repertoire.

Related Terms

Tempo: The speed at which a piece of music is played.

Legato: A smooth, flowing manner of playing notes.

Crescendo: A gradual increase in volume.

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