Difference between revisions of "Tremolo"
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On [[String Instruments|string instruments]] such as the [[violin]], the performer moves the tip of the bow rapidly back and forth over the string, while a single note is held on the fingerboard. While not often used in solo violin literature, it is a ubiquitous effect in symphony [[orchestra]]s, especially in [[opera]]. | On [[String Instruments|string instruments]] such as the [[violin]], the performer moves the tip of the bow rapidly back and forth over the string, while a single note is held on the fingerboard. While not often used in solo violin literature, it is a ubiquitous effect in symphony [[orchestra]]s, especially in [[opera]]. | ||
| − | On a [[guitar]], a tremolo is produced easily with a pick, which is run back-and forth across the string. It is a distinctive effect used often by surf guitarists such as Dick Dale (most memorably in "Miserlou"), as well as by [[Heavy Metal]] guitarists. On the classical guitar, it is a much more difficult effect which is produced by holding the hand perpendicular to the | + | On a [[guitar]], a tremolo is produced easily with a pick, which is run back-and forth across the string. It is a distinctive effect used often by surf guitarists such as Dick Dale (most memorably in "Miserlou"), as well as by [[Heavy Metal]] guitarists. On the classical guitar, it is a much more difficult effect which is produced by holding the hand perpendicular to the strings, and plucking the string with alternating fingers. |
On the [[piano]], tremolo on a single note is seldom used (though in [[harpsichord]] music its use was frequent), as it is difficult to execute and sounds more brilliant than agitated. When the same effect as string instrument tremolo is desired on the piano, the pianist alternates as rapidly and smoothly as possible between two (or more) notes, often an octave apart. When done in the bass register of the piano, it creates a rumble like the [[timpani]]. | On the [[piano]], tremolo on a single note is seldom used (though in [[harpsichord]] music its use was frequent), as it is difficult to execute and sounds more brilliant than agitated. When the same effect as string instrument tremolo is desired on the piano, the pianist alternates as rapidly and smoothly as possible between two (or more) notes, often an octave apart. When done in the bass register of the piano, it creates a rumble like the [[timpani]]. | ||
[[Category:Musical terms]] | [[Category:Musical terms]] | ||
Revision as of 19:42, June 11, 2009
Tremolo is a musical technique used on various instruments, which calls for rapid repetition of a single note or chord in order to create a sense of agitation. It is produced in very different ways on different instruments.
On string instruments such as the violin, the performer moves the tip of the bow rapidly back and forth over the string, while a single note is held on the fingerboard. While not often used in solo violin literature, it is a ubiquitous effect in symphony orchestras, especially in opera.
On a guitar, a tremolo is produced easily with a pick, which is run back-and forth across the string. It is a distinctive effect used often by surf guitarists such as Dick Dale (most memorably in "Miserlou"), as well as by Heavy Metal guitarists. On the classical guitar, it is a much more difficult effect which is produced by holding the hand perpendicular to the strings, and plucking the string with alternating fingers.
On the piano, tremolo on a single note is seldom used (though in harpsichord music its use was frequent), as it is difficult to execute and sounds more brilliant than agitated. When the same effect as string instrument tremolo is desired on the piano, the pianist alternates as rapidly and smoothly as possible between two (or more) notes, often an octave apart. When done in the bass register of the piano, it creates a rumble like the timpani.