Double Bass Tenuto

[Andy Mopley]

Hi all

I understand that Tenuto indicates hold for the note’s full length. But apart from where it is notated otherwise (eg staccato) shouldn't tenuto be a default anyway??

I guess I am trying to understand the context of the use of tenuto, when written in a score, and why a composer would want to use it.

Thanks

 

[neilG]

"Tenuto" is not one thing, it depends on context. It can mean longer, long as possible or emphasized. Do you have a specific example?

 

[Andy Mopley]

Promenade, when DB first come in, after the 6/4 bar, Neil...From your post, I am assuming in this context is to emphasize?

Thanks

 

[neilG]

I would read that to mean to give the notes their fullest value. You'd be mimicking the length and separation of the notes just played by the trumpet.

 

[Andy Mopley]

See, that's what I don't (quite) get, Neil. "I would read that to mean to give the notes their fullest value." if the tenuto sign was not there, would you do anything differently then, and if so, what?

Thanks

 

[neilG]

You have to respond to what's going on around you. If not indicated with the tenuto marks, I might use an ordinary detaché stroke which would be slightly shorter.

 

[Andy Mopley]

You have to respond to what's going on around you. If not indicated with the tenuto marks, I might use an ordinary detaché stroke which would be slightly shorter.

Got it, thank you Neil