5 Dynamic Markings, Articulations, and Slurs

In addition to notes and accidentals, the staff can contain much more information about how the music written on the staff should be performed.

Dynamic markings

Go through the following slides to learn more. Click the arrows to turn pages, or click the three blue lines at the left top corner to show or hide the table of contents, or you can click the icon at the right-top corner to view it in full-screen mode. If there is a sample clip, you can click the play icon to play it.

Articulations

Articulations are symbols that indicate how a note should be played.

Articulations are placed on top or below the note head. Smaller symbols, such as a staccato, can be placed in the staff, whereas larger symbols, such as a marcato, should be placed outside the staff.

Slurs

Slurs are curved lines appearing above or below two or more notes indicating that they are to be played legato.