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A cue is a signal that tells one or more musicians when to begin playing, singing or move to the next section of a performance. Cues may be visual, verbal or musical and are essential for keeping an ensemble together.
What is a cue?
A cue can come from a conductor, bandleader or another musician. It may be a hand gesture, eye contact, a head nod, a spoken instruction or even a short musical phrase that signals an upcoming entrance or change in the music.
Cues are used in orchestras, bands, musical theatre, worship music and studio sessions whenever musicians need to coordinate their performance without interrupting the flow of the music.
How are cues used in piano playing?
Piano players constantly give and receive cues when performing with others. A pianist may signal the start of a song, indicate the next verse, prepare the band for a key change or cue the ending with a musical phrase or visual gesture.
Learning to recognize and communicate cues is an essential ensemble skill. Good cueing improves timing, confidence and musical communication, helping every performer stay together throughout the performance.