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Glissando is a musical technique in which the performer slides rapidly from one note to another, passing through the notes in between. On the piano, this creates a dramatic sweep across the keyboard.
What is a glissando?
On keyboard instruments, a glissando is performed by sliding a finger or fingernail across a series of white or black keys. Unlike instruments capable of continuous pitch changes, such as the violin or the human voice, the piano produces a rapid succession of individual notes.
Glissandos are commonly used as expressive effects to add excitement, energy or dramatic emphasis to a musical performance.
How is glissando used in piano playing?
Glissandos are frequently heard in rock and roll, pop, boogie-woogie and show music. Piano players often use the back of a finger, the thumb or a fingernail to glide quickly across the keys, creating an exciting transition or a powerful ending.
Learning to perform glissandos safely and accurately allows pianists to add flair and excitement to their performances while avoiding unnecessary strain or injury.