Trill

The trill is one of the most common ornaments in Western music. It is a rapid alternation between a written note and the note immediately above it (usually a step away), indicated by tr or a wavy line over the note. The effect is a shimmering, oscillating ornamentation that emphasizes the principal note.

Trill execution varies by era and style. In Baroque music, trills typically begin on the upper note (the ‘upper auxiliary’) and alternate; in Classical and Romantic music, they more commonly begin on the principal note. The speed of the alternation depends on the tempo and character — slow trills sound expressive; fast trills sound brilliant.

The trill often ends with a small ‘turn’ figure: alternation, then a brief turn around the principal note, then resolution. This turned ending provides a sense of rhythmic completion. The exact performance of trills is a major topic of ornamentation studies — period and style determine the right approach.

Italian trillo (‘trill’), of imitative origin.

Decide on trill execution before performing. Period style matters: Baroque trills usually begin on upper note; Classical and Romantic on the principal. End with a turn unless context indicates otherwise.