Definition

Describing a musical note that is held or sustained for its full duration or longer than usual.

Example

The pianist played the piece with a sostenuto touch, allowing the notes to linger beautifully.

Conversation

I really loved how the pianist played that piece last night.

Yeah, the way he made the notes so sostenuto was incredible.

It added such an emotional depth to the music, didn't it?

Absolutely! That sostenuto effect really brought the whole performance to life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

In music, this term means to hold a note for its full duration or longer than usual.

Example

The pianist played the melody sostenuto, allowing each note to resonate beautifully.

Conversation

I really enjoyed that piano piece you played last night.

Thanks! I tried to make the notes sound more sostenuto for a smoother melody.

It definitely worked; it felt so flowing and relaxing.

Definition

A musical term referring to a passage or movement where the notes are held or prolonged for an extended duration.

Example

The pianist played the sostenuto section with great emotion, allowing each note to resonate.

Conversation

Have you ever tried playing a piece with a sostenuto effect?

No, I haven't! What does it feel like?

It's really interesting because it makes the notes feel more extended and expressive.

Root Explanation

**Sostenuto** → It is formed from "sostenere" (meaning to sustain or hold up) and the suffix "-uto" (indicating a state or condition). The word "sostenuto" refers to a musical term meaning sustained, indicating that a note or passage should be held for its full value.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sustaining' a note in music — 'sostenere' means to hold up, and that's why 'sostenuto' means to sustain a sound.

Visually Confused Words