Which term describes holding a note or rest longer than its written value?

The term that describes holding a note or rest longer than its written value is a fermata. In musical notation, a fermata is indicated by a symbol that looks like a dot with a semicircle above it. When a musician sees a fermata over a note or rest, they are instructed to extend the duration of that sound or silence beyond its standard timing, often until the performer feels that it is appropriate to continue. This practice can add emotional weight to the music, creating moments of emphasis or pause.

In contrast, a slur connects two or more notes, indicating that they should be played legato, or smoothly linked. A tenuto marking directs the musician to hold a note for its full value, but it doesn’t specify that it should be prolonged beyond what is written. Glissando is a technique that involves sliding from one note to another, adding a different texture to the music rather than altering the duration of a single note or rest.