Articulation – Legato

Articulation refers to how notes are attacked (started) and released (ended). For example, are the notes smooth and connected, or short and separated? The two most common forms of articulation are legato and staccato.

Notes that are legato are played without and perceptible interruption between them. The sound is very smooth and connected. Legato notes are usually indicated with a slur, a curved line placed above or below the notes.

Listen to the example below to learn about legato.