Staccato
Definition. Detached — notes are played short and separate, each clearly disconnected from the next. Indicated by a dot above or below the note.
Detailed Explanation
Staccato, notated by a dot above or below the note, instructs the performer to play the note shortened and detached — each note a distinct event, separated from neighbors by silence. The effect is light, articulated, often sparkling or playful.
The exact length of a staccato note depends on context. In a fast passage, a staccato note may be shortened to roughly half its written value; in slower music, perhaps three-quarters. The Italian staccato literally means ‘detached’, and that is the criterion: the note must clearly stand apart from its neighbors.
Different instruments achieve staccato differently. On strings, a stopped bow stroke produces a short, separated note. On piano, a quick lift of the key creates the same effect. On winds, the tongue interrupts the airflow. On voice, the diaphragm or glottis provides separation. Each technique requires practice to produce a clean, characterful staccato.
Etymology
Italian, past participle of staccare (‘to detach, separate’), itself from s- + attaccare (‘to attach’).
In Practice
Don’t merely shorten the note — separate it. The silence between staccato notes is as important as the notes themselves. The character should be light and articulated, not chopped or harsh.
Notable Examples
- Mozart — Various concertos and sonatas (ubiquitous staccato writing)
- Mendelssohn — Midsummer Night's Dream Scherzo (iconic staccato writing)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Qué significa Staccato en música?
Detached — notes are played short and separate, each clearly disconnected from the next. Indicated by a dot above or below the note.
¿De dónde viene la palabra Staccato?
Italian, past participle of staccare (‘to detach, separate’), itself from s- + attaccare (‘to attach’).
¿Cómo se interpreta Staccato en la práctica?
Don’t merely shorten the note — separate it. The silence between staccato notes is as important as the notes themselves. The character should be light and articulated, not chopped or harsh.
¿Cuáles son las abreviaturas comunes de Staccato?
Staccato se abrevia normalmente como stacc..
¿Qué términos musicales se relacionan con Staccato?
Términos relacionados: Staccatissimo, Spiccato, Marcato, Leggiero.
Practice with Songtive's free tools
Hear this term applied — explore chord charts, fingerings and the music engine.
Piano chordsGuitar chordsVirtual piano
