Phrasing--Musical (continued)
Musical phrasing is more than simply breaking after the last note. Phrases typically begin with a sense of “easing in,” then progress with more forward motion, and end with a sense of “pulling back.” These subtle nuances do not usually require markings--they are to be felt and communicated by the organist at the time of performance. But sometimes markings can be used as reminders:
- A TENUTO MARK (a short horizontal straight line) over or under a note (see measure 3) reminds you to give emphasis or extra time--to “ease in” at the beginning note(s) of the phrase.
- A RIGHT ARROW above the staff (see measure 5) reminds you to move through the passage; to “move forward” as the phrase develops.
- A LEFT ARROW above the staff (see measure 7) reminds you to slow slightly; to “pull back” as the phrase or idea draws to a close.
Index Screen