Portamento
A smooth, vocal-style slide between two notes.
Category
articulation
Pronunciation
por-tah-MEHN-toh
Origin
Italian
Length
95 words · 1 min read
About Portamento
Portamento is a more refined, expressive slide than glissando, typically associated with the voice and bowed strings. Rather than hitting every intermediate pitch, it suggests a graceful, continuous connection between two notes.
More articulation terms
Marcato
View all articulationterms →Marked; each note played with strong emphasis.
TenutoHeld for its full value; sustained with emphasis.
ArcoWith the bow; resume bowing after pizzicato.
Con sordinoWith mute; using a mute on the instrument.
ArpeggioNotes of a chord played in rapid succession rather than simultaneously.
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →