Turn
Definition. An ornament consisting of four notes — upper auxiliary, principal, lower auxiliary, principal. Indicated by ∽.
Detailed Explanation
The turn (also called gruppetto in Italian) is a four-note ornament that ‘turns’ around a principal note. The pattern is: upper auxiliary — principal — lower auxiliary — principal. The notation is a horizontal S-shape (∽) above the note.
The turn provides a graceful melodic decoration. It was particularly common in 18th-century music, where it appears constantly in keyboard, vocal, and instrumental writing. Mozart was a master of turn-based ornamentation; his slow movements feature turns in nearly every phrase.
Variations exist. The ‘inverted turn’ reverses the direction: lower auxiliary — principal — upper auxiliary — principal. The turn can be placed before, on, or after the beat depending on stylistic conventions of the period and composer.
Etymology
English, descriptive — the ornament ‘turns’ around the principal note. Italian gruppetto (‘little group’) is the equivalent term.
In Practice
Execute the four notes evenly. Light, graceful, decorative. The turn should ornament the principal note without overshadowing it.
Notable Examples
- Mozart — Various (extensive turn ornamentation)
- Chopin — Nocturnes (elaborate turn figures)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Turn mean in music?
An ornament consisting of four notes — upper auxiliary, principal, lower auxiliary, principal. Indicated by ∽.
Where does the word Turn come from?
English, descriptive — the ornament ‘turns’ around the principal note. Italian gruppetto (‘little group’) is the equivalent term.
How is Turn performed in practice?
Execute the four notes evenly. Light, graceful, decorative. The turn should ornament the principal note without overshadowing it.
What are common abbreviations for Turn?
Turn is commonly abbreviated as gruppetto.
What musical terms are related to Turn?
Related terms include: Gruppetto, Trill, Mordent.
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