Definition

A musical term indicating that a note or chord should be held for its full duration without any shortening.

Example

The pianist played the note tenuto, allowing it to resonate fully before moving on to the next.

Conversation

Have you ever tried playing a piece with a tenuto style?

I haven’t, but I’ve heard it makes the music feel more expressive.

Yeah, it really helps to hold the notes to their full value.

I’d love to give it a shot; it sounds like a great technique!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

In music, it means to hold a note for its full duration without shortening it.

Example

The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the note tenuto for a richer sound.

Conversation

Have you ever heard a musician play a note with a tenuto style?

Yeah, it really makes the music feel more expressive and full.

Exactly! It’s like they’re savoring each note for longer.

Root Explanation

Tenuto → It is derived from the Italian word 'tenere' (meaning to hold or sustain). The term 'tenuto' in music indicates that a note should be held for its full value, reflecting the idea of sustaining or holding the note.

Memory Tip

Think of 'holding' ('tenere') a note for its full duration — that's what 'tenuto' means in music.

Visually Confused Words