Glissando: A musical technique involving a continuous glide from one pitch to another, creating a seamless transition across a range of notes.

Context and Significance

Glissando is significant in creating expressive, fluid passages in music. It is prevalent in genres such as classical, jazz, and contemporary music. Instruments that frequently employ this technique include pianos, where it involves sliding a finger across the keys, and stringed instruments, where a player slides a finger along the string. In wind instruments, players execute glissando by smoothly changing the pitch using their embouchure or keys. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for musicians aiming to add emotional depth and drama to their performances.

Historical Background

The term “glissando” is derived from the French “glisser,” meaning “to glide.” Its use became prominent in the Romantic period, where composers sought to explore new expressive possibilities. The technique gained popularity as instrumental capabilities expanded, allowing for greater pitch flexibility. Early adopters in orchestral music included composers like Liszt and Ravel, who used glissandi to enhance the emotional impact of their compositions. The technique has since evolved, becoming a staple in various musical styles.

Examples

Glissando features prominently in Maurice Ravel’s “Boléro,” where it adds a sweeping, dramatic effect to the orchestration. In George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” the clarinet glissando at the beginning is iconic, setting the tone for the entire piece. Jazz pianist Art Tatum often incorporated glissandi into his virtuosic solos, showcasing the technique’s potential for adding flair and velocity. These examples underscore the technique’s capacity to transform ordinary passages into memorable musical expressions.

Related Terms

Portamento: A technique similar to glissando, often used in vocal music to achieve a smooth transition between pitches.

Slide: Typically used in guitar and trombone music to describe a method of moving between notes.

Arpeggio: A technique involving the rapid playing of notes in a chord sequentially, distinct from the continuous glide of a glissando.

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