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Glissando Meaning in English

word

ɡlɪˈsɑndoʊ
glih-SAHN-doh
ɡlɪsˈændəʊ
glihs-AN-doh

Definition

A glissando is a musical effect where you glide smoothly up or down between two notes, playing all the notes in between quickly.

Usage & Nuances

'Glissando' is used in classical, jazz, and popular music. On piano, it often means sliding the finger along the keys; on strings, sliding the finger along the string. It is an Italian term and usually appears in musical scores. Not all instruments can perform a glissando the same way.

Example Sentences

The pianist played a beautiful glissando at the end of the song.

basic

You can hear a glissando in this guitar solo.

basic

The violinist used a glissando to change between notes smoothly.

basic

That dramatic glissando made the performance unforgettable.

natural

Can you try adding a glissando to that phrase for extra flair?

natural

Some instruments make it easier to perform a glissando than others.

natural