- Understand phrase structure and musical sentences
- Shape phrases with dynamics and rubato
- Apply expressive breathing and timing
- Transform notes into musical communication
Introduction
Phrasing is music's punctuation—it shapes melodies into meaningful statements. Just as speech has sentences and pauses, music has phrases and breaths. Great phrasing transforms correct notes into expressive, communicative performance!
What is a Phrase?
A musical phrase is like a sentence in language:
- Has a beginning, middle, and end
- Expresses a complete musical thought
- Often ends with a cadence (musical punctuation)
- Typically 4-8 measures long
Phrase 1 (question):
Phrase 2 (answer):
Notice: Phrase 1 feels incomplete (ends on F), Phrase 2 resolves (ends on C).
Shaping Phrases
Phrases have natural arcs—tension and release, question and answer.
The Arc Principle
Most phrases build to a climax then release:
- Beginning: Start softer, build energy
- Climax: Usually the highest note, or harmonic tension
- Resolution: Release tension, taper dynamics
Shape this phrase with dynamics: start mp, crescendo to the high note, diminuendo to the end.
Dynamics: mp → mf → f (on D5) → mf → mp (ending)
Breathing and Phrasing
Where you breathe defines phrase boundaries!
Musical Breathing
- Breathe at phrase ends: Natural punctuation
- Quick breaths mid-phrase: When necessary, but don't break the line
- Use breath for expression: Slight pause adds weight
- Plan breaths in advance: Mark your score
Rubato: Expressive Timing
Rubato (Italian: "robbed time") means subtly stretching and compressing tempo for expression.
When to Use Rubato
- Ends of phrases (slight ritardando)
- Expressive high points (linger slightly)
- Romantic and expressive music (not strict Baroque!)
- Cadences and resolutions
Rubato Guidelines
- Subtle! Not obvious tempo changes
- "Borrow and repay"—slow down, then catch up
- Maintain overall tempo sense
- Appropriate to style (Chopin yes, Bach no)
Expressive Devices
Dynamic Shaping
- Crescendo toward phrase peak
- Diminuendo at phrase end
- Echo effects (forte-piano repetition)
- Terraced dynamics (Baroque)
Agogic Accent
Slightly lengthen important notes for emphasis—very subtle!
Tone Color
- Brighter tone for joyful passages
- Darker, warmer tone for melancholic music
- Adjust embouchure and air slightly
Common Phrasing Mistakes
- ❌ Breathing mid-phrase randomly: Plan breaths musically!
- ❌ Same dynamics throughout: Boring! Shape your phrases
- ❌ Too much rubato: Becomes mannered and disrupts flow
- ❌ Ignoring cadences: Mark phrase endings clearly
- ❌ Mechanical playing: Every note same length, volume, character
Practice Routine
- Identify phrases in your music (mark with brackets) - 5 min
- Sing phrases on "la"—feel the natural shape - 5 min
- Play with exaggerated phrasing - 7 min
- Refine to subtle, natural expression - 8 min