appoggiatura
1
9.9
A short note played before a main note that takes some time from it
- noun
- /əˌpɑːdʒəˈtʊərə/
- Specialized
:
appoggiatura
- In classical music, an appoggiatura is often played as a grace note before the main melody.
Examples
-
When playing piano, including an appoggiatura can enhance the expressiveness of the performance.
-
Ornamentation also allows the improviser to create other kinds of melodic interest through the use of appoggiaturas and other ornaments.
Academic text (1995) -
The composer used an appoggiatura to add emotional depth to the final note of the piece.
Synonyms
1
7.5
A very short decorative note played quickly before a main note
is a specific ornament sounded before the main note that shortens it
How Short
Surface Forms
appoggiatura singular
appoggiaturas plural
Etymology
Appoggiatura comes from the Italian verb appoggiare, which means 'to lean' or 'to support'. A helpful image is a small note that 'leans' on the main note, taking a little time from it and giving the melody extra feeling.