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
Que signifie Accent en musique ?
An emphasis on a particular note, indicated by the symbol > above or below the note.
D'où vient le mot Accent ?
From Latin accentus, ‘sounding alongside’, from ad- + cantus (‘song, sound’).
Comment exécute-t-on Accent en pratique ?
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.
Quelles sont les abréviations courantes de Accent ?
Accent s'abrège couramment en accento.
Quels termes musicaux sont liés à Accent ?
Termes liés : Sforzando, Marcato, Tenuto, Rinforzando.
Practice with Songtive's free tools
Hear this term applied — explore chord charts, fingerings and the music engine.
Piano chordsGuitar chordsVirtual piano
