- Master staccato (short, detached) articulation
- Develop legato (smooth, connected) phrasing
- Understand portato (moderately separated) technique
- Apply varied articulation for musical expression
Introduction
Articulation is how you begin and end each note—it's one of the most powerful tools for musical expression. The same melody can sound playful, dramatic, or peaceful just by changing articulation!
The Three Main Articulations
1. Staccato (Short and Detached)
Staccato notes are marked with a dot above or below the note head. Use a crisp "tut" or "tit" tongue syllable, play each note about half its written length.
2. Legato (Smooth and Connected)
Legato passages are marked with a slur line. Only tongue the first note, then change fingers smoothly while keeping air flowing continuously.
Play these notes short and crisp.
Only tongue the first note of each group. Keep air flowing!
Play this three ways: normal, staccato, then legato. Notice the different character!
Mastery goal: Play the same melody with clear contrast between staccato, legato, and normal articulation styles.
Next: Lesson 13 - Dotted Rhythms