Articulation and Expression
This chapter examines the expressive element of articulation. It is often difficult to determine whether unmarked notes require a specific style of delivery or whether they are merely unmarked because a particular type of delivery is assumed from the context. Similarly, the use of particular symbols, such as staccato dots or strokes, are not always a reliable guide to the articulation envisaged by the composer. The question of what staccato, legato, and ‘non-legato’ or perhaps ‘non-staccato’ may have envisaged is discussed in relation to theoretical writings and specific examples from the music of the period. Instances where unmarked notes may have been intended to be slurred are considered. The meaning of sciolto and non legato is investigated; so too are circumstances in which non legato or non staccato may have been intended where nothing was specified.
Keywords: articulation, staccato, staccato dots, staccato strokes, legato, sciolto, non legato, slur
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