Legato

Definition

Legato is a musical term that describes a smooth and connected style of playing or singing, where notes are performed in a flowing manner with little to no interruption between them. This technique is essential in creating an expressive and lyrical quality in music, allowing for a seamless transition from one note to the next, which is particularly prominent in the Classical period. It enhances the overall aesthetic of compositions by emphasizing melodic lines and contributing to the emotional depth of the music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Legato playing is indicated in sheet music by a curved line called a slur, which connects the notes that should be played smoothly.
2. In instrumental music, legato is achieved by using techniques such as bowing smoothly on string instruments or controlling breath in wind instruments.
3. The use of legato is prominent in the works of Classical composers like Mozart and Beethoven, who often employed this technique to enhance lyrical melodies.
4. Singers also utilize legato to create fluid vocal lines, allowing them to convey emotions more effectively through their performance.
5. The legato style contrasts with other articulations like staccato, creating varied textures and expressions within a piece of music.

Review Questions

• How does the use of legato contribute to the overall expressiveness of Classical music?
  • Legato enhances the expressiveness of Classical music by allowing melodies to flow seamlessly from one note to another. This smoothness creates a lyrical quality that can convey deep emotions and connect with listeners on an emotional level. Composers like Mozart and Beethoven utilized legato to shape their melodic lines, making their music more engaging and relatable.
• Compare and contrast legato and staccato in terms of their impact on musical interpretation.
  • Legato and staccato are contrasting articulation techniques that significantly affect musical interpretation. Legato creates a smooth, connected sound that allows for lyrical expression and emotional depth. In contrast, staccato adds clarity and sharpness by detaching notes from one another. The interplay between these two styles can create dynamic contrasts within a piece, enriching the overall performance.
• Evaluate the role of legato in shaping musical phrasing and its significance in the context of compositions from the Classical period.
  • Legato plays a crucial role in shaping musical phrasing by allowing composers to create long, flowing lines that enhance the lyrical quality of their works. In the context of Classical compositions, legato is significant as it helps articulate phrases that reflect human emotions and intentions. The technique not only unifies musical ideas but also contributes to the narrative aspect of compositions, making it an essential tool for both composers and performers during this period.

Related terms

Staccato: A style of playing where notes are played in a short and detached manner, contrasting with legato.

Articulation: The clarity and precision with which musical notes are executed, encompassing various styles including legato and staccato.

Phrasing: The way musical phrases are shaped and expressed, closely related to the use of legato for creating musical lines.