The appoggiatura



Example: The appoggiatura adds expressive tension before resolving to the main note.

Definition


"The appoggiatura" is a musical ornament that consists of a non-chord note, usually approached by a leap and then resolved stepwise to a chord note, adding expressive tension and emotional emphasis to a melody.

Translations



Etymology


The word "the appoggiatura" comes from the Italian verb 'appoggiare,' meaning 'to lean.' It reflects how this ornament 'leans' on the main note, creating a momentary dissonance before resolution. Did you know it has been a staple in classical music since the Baroque period?

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"The appoggiatura" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - Music - (C2) - set 1", containing 99 commonly used words.
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