Instrumental techniques
What Instrumental techniques means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Instrumental techniques
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Reference: AQA
Specific methods of playing that alter the timbre and rhythmic drive of a track and contribute to its texture, groove and stylistic genre.
Playing techniques such as pizzicato, con sordino and sul ponticello, which directly alter the timbre of an instrument.
Specific ways of playing, such as vibrato, glissando and flutter tonguing, that alter the resulting sonority.
Pizzicato instructs players to pluck the strings, while arco directs them to return to using the bow.
Common playing methods such as pizzicato, mute or tremolo, recognised for their dramatic function.
Topics that use Instrumental techniques
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 2: Pop music - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 3: Music for media - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 5: Jazz - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Sonority
- Articulation
- Dominant pedal
- Expressive techniques
- Glissando
- Harmonic progression
- Harmonic tension
- Syncopation
Using Instrumental techniques in the exam
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