Tenuto
Held for its full value; sustained with emphasis.
Category
articulation
Pronunciation
teh-NOO-toh
Origin
Italian
Length
95 words · 1 min read
About Tenuto
Tenuto, indicated by a horizontal line above or below the note, instructs the performer to hold the note for its complete written duration and perhaps slightly longer. It is the opposite of staccato and implies a slight lingering or leaning on each note.
More articulation terms
Tratteggiato
View all articulationterms →An articulation marking indicating short, detached strokes drawn lightly across the string.
PizzicatoPlucked with the finger rather than bowed.
SpiccatoA bouncing bow stroke producing short, separated notes.
PesanteHeavily, with weight.
GlissandoA continuous slide between two notes.
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →