Accent
Definition. An emphasis on a particular note, indicated by the symbol > above or below the note.
Detailed Explanation
An accent is a basic articulation marking, indicated by the wedge-shaped symbol > above or below a note. It instructs the performer to give that note slight additional emphasis — a touch louder, a touch sharper in attack — than the surrounding notes.
Accents are the workhorses of expressive articulation. They are weaker than sforzandos (which are explosive emphasis) and more pointed than tenutos (which are weight without sharpness). A skilled performer uses accents to shape phrasing, to create rhythmic life, and to highlight harmonic or melodic events of importance.
In syncopated music — jazz, Latin, much 20th-century repertoire — accents are essential to the rhythmic feel. Off-beat accents create syncopation; expected accents on downbeats produce regularity. The placement and weight of accents is one of the most powerful expressive tools available.
Etymology
From Latin accentus, ‘sounding alongside’, from ad- + cantus (‘song, sound’).
In Practice
Don’t overplay accents. A slight increase in attack and volume is enough — too much, and you’ve crossed into sforzando territory. The note should feel emphasized but not exaggerated.
Notable Examples
- Most composers — Universal usage (ubiquitous articulation marking)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Qué significa Accent en música?
An emphasis on a particular note, indicated by the symbol > above or below the note.
¿De dónde viene la palabra Accent?
From Latin accentus, ‘sounding alongside’, from ad- + cantus (‘song, sound’).
¿Cómo se interpreta Accent en la práctica?
Don’t overplay accents. A slight increase in attack and volume is enough — too much, and you’ve crossed into sforzando territory. The note should feel emphasized but not exaggerated.
¿Cuáles son las abreviaturas comunes de Accent?
Accent se abrevia normalmente como accento.
¿Qué términos musicales se relacionan con Accent?
Términos relacionados: Sforzando, Marcato, Tenuto, Rinforzando.
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