Arpeggio
Definition. A chord broken into successive notes — playing the notes of a chord in succession rather than simultaneously. Abbreviated *arp.*
Detailed Explanation
An arpeggio (sometimes called a ‘broken chord’) is a chord whose notes are played in succession rather than simultaneously. The Italian arpeggio literally means ‘harp-like’ — referring to the way harpists naturally play chords by sweeping across the strings, sounding each note in quick succession.
Arpeggios are notated with a vertical wavy line beside the chord, instructing the performer to roll the chord. On piano, the player plays the bottom note first and rapidly rolls up to the top. On guitar and harp, similar quick succession. The effect is a chord that ‘shimmers’ rather than striking solidly.
Arpeggio is also a fundamental technique in melodic figuration. Many running passages — Bach’s harpsichord music, Chopin’s piano works, virtually all jazz solos — use arpeggios as the building blocks of melodic motion. The technique is essential to fluent playing in nearly every Western tradition.
Etymology
Italian, ‘harp-like’, from arpa (‘harp’).
In Practice
Roll arpeggios quickly enough to retain the chordal sense, but slowly enough that each note is audible. On piano, play bottom-up unless otherwise indicated. The chord should sound like a single shimmering gesture.
Notable Examples
- Bach — Toccatas and fugues (extensive arpeggio writing)
- Chopin — Études (arpeggio-based études (Op. 10 No. 1))
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Arpeggio mean in music?
A chord broken into successive notes — playing the notes of a chord in succession rather than simultaneously. Abbreviated arp.
Where does the word Arpeggio come from?
Italian, ‘harp-like’, from arpa (‘harp’).
How is Arpeggio performed in practice?
Roll arpeggios quickly enough to retain the chordal sense, but slowly enough that each note is audible. On piano, play bottom-up unless otherwise indicated. The chord should sound like a single shimmering gesture.
What are common abbreviations for Arpeggio?
Arpeggio is commonly abbreviated as arp..
What musical terms are related to Arpeggio?
Related terms include: Glissando, Tremolo.
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