Rubato

Definition

Rubato is a musical term that refers to the practice of temporarily disregarding strict tempo in favor of expressive timing. It allows performers to stretch or compress the rhythm of a piece, creating a more emotional and nuanced interpretation. This flexibility can affect how a song's mood is conveyed, making it feel more intimate or dramatic depending on its application.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rubato is often found in Romantic music but can appear in various genres, enhancing expressiveness.
2. It can be applied differently by each performer, leading to unique interpretations of the same piece.
3. While rubato allows for flexibility, it should still maintain a sense of pulse to keep the music coherent.
4. Composers may indicate where rubato should be applied, but performers often have the freedom to interpret its usage.
5. Using rubato effectively can evoke strong emotions and create an intimate atmosphere in a performance.

Review Questions

• How does rubato influence the interpretation of a piece and what emotions can it convey?
  • Rubato influences interpretation by allowing performers to manipulate the timing of notes, giving them the freedom to emphasize certain phrases over others. This expressive timing can create a sense of intimacy, longing, or drama within the music. By stretching or compressing notes, performers can convey complex emotions that resonate with listeners, enhancing their connection to the piece.
• Discuss how rubato interacts with tempo and dynamics in creating a song's mood.
  • Rubato interacts with tempo by providing a way to break free from a rigid beat while still maintaining an underlying pulse. When combined with changes in dynamics, rubato can greatly enhance the emotional impact of a song. For example, slowing down during a soft passage can heighten tension or vulnerability, while speeding up can convey excitement or urgency, making the overall mood richer and more compelling.
• Evaluate the role of rubato in different musical styles and its effectiveness in conveying varying moods across genres.
  • Rubato plays a significant role across various musical styles, particularly in Romantic music where emotional expression is paramount. However, its effectiveness varies by genre; for example, it may be used sparingly in classical music but more freely in jazz or popular music to enhance improvisation. Evaluating rubato's role highlights how performers adapt this technique to fit the character of the genre, impacting how moods are conveyed and interpreted by audiences, thereby showing its versatility as an expressive tool.

Related terms

tempo: The speed at which a piece of music is played, typically measured in beats per minute (BPM).

dynamics: The varying levels of loudness or softness in music, which can enhance emotional expression alongside rubato.

phrasing: The way musical sentences are constructed and articulated, which can be enhanced by the use of rubato for emotional impact.