In the context of musical expressions, what does 'tenuto' imply?

The term 'tenuto' comes from the Italian word meaning "held." In musical notation, when a note is marked with a tenuto indication, it instructs the performer to sustain the note for its full duration, emphasizing it within the context of the music. This means that the musician should not shorten the note or play it too lightly; instead, they should firmly maintain the note's length, allowing it to resonate completely within the measure.

This concept is crucial for conveying expressive musical ideas and ensuring that the performed piece reflects the intended emotional depth and character. As a result, tenuto plays a significant role in shaping the dynamics and phrasing of a musical performance. Understanding this term helps musicians achieve a more nuanced interpretation of the score, allowing them to highlight the importance of specific notes within a melodic line.