Rubato

Definition

Rubato is a musical term that refers to the expressive and flexible adjustment of tempo, allowing performers to stretch or compress the timing of notes for emotional effect. This technique adds a personal touch to the performance, enhancing the character of the music by allowing phrases to flow more freely. It is especially important in lyrical and expressive styles, where emotional expression takes precedence over strict adherence to tempo.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rubato allows performers to deviate from the established tempo to bring out expressiveness in the music.
2. It is commonly used in Romantic music but can also appear in earlier styles when appropriate.
3. Rubato can involve both the expansion and contraction of time within phrases, creating a sense of ebb and flow.
4. Performers often use rubato to highlight important melodic lines or emotional moments in a piece.
5. Rubato should be used judiciously; excessive use can lead to a loss of clarity and structure in the music.

Review Questions

• How does rubato enhance expressiveness in performance?
  • Rubato enhances expressiveness by allowing performers to manipulate the tempo, creating a more emotional interpretation of the music. By stretching certain notes and compressing others, musicians can draw attention to melodic lines and emotional peaks, adding depth to their performance. This flexibility helps convey the character of the piece more effectively than a rigid tempo would allow.
• Discuss how rubato might be applied differently in various musical styles or genres.
  • In different musical styles, rubato can vary significantly. For example, in Romantic compositions, rubato is often used freely to emphasize emotional expression and lyrical lines. In contrast, Classical music might employ a more restrained use of rubato to maintain clarity and formality within structured pieces. Jazz also embraces rubato, though it often integrates it with improvisation, allowing for spontaneous and fluid rhythmic changes that enhance the overall groove.
• Evaluate the impact of rubato on listener perception and engagement with a musical piece.
  • Rubato has a profound impact on how listeners perceive and engage with music by adding emotional depth and complexity. When performers utilize rubato effectively, they create moments that can resonate deeply with an audience, making them feel connected to the music on a personal level. This expressive timing draws listeners into the performance, fostering a sense of shared experience that can elevate the overall enjoyment and appreciation of the piece.

Related terms

tempo: The speed at which a piece of music is played, usually indicated in beats per minute (BPM).

phrasing: The way a musician shapes a sequence of notes in a passage, emphasizing certain notes to create a musical sentence.

expression: The use of dynamics, articulation, and tempo variations to convey emotion and meaning in music.