Music Term
What is a fermata?
Definition
A fermata is a musical pause symbol indicating that a note, chord, or rest should be held for longer than its notated value -- as long as the performer or conductor feels appropriate.
Fermata in music -- explained
The fermata symbol (a dot inside a curved arc, resembling an eye) is called a 'bird's eye' in American vernacular. It suspends the regular pulse of music, creating a moment of silence or sustained sound outside metronomic time. In classical performance, the fermata is one of the conductor's primary expressive tools: how long the orchestra holds a fermata, and how it releases, is a major interpretive decision that affects the emotional quality of the moment. Fermatas can appear on a note (extend the note), a rest (extend the silence), or a barline (extend the pause between sections). In rock and jazz, fermatas are typically improvised rather than notated -- the lead performer signals with a look or gesture when the sustain should release. A fermata at the end of a movement signals definitive conclusion; a fermata mid-piece signals dramatic interruption. Famous fermatas include the long silence in Beethoven's Fifth before the finale enters.
Notable examples of a fermata
Symphony No. 5 in C minor -- Ludwig van Beethoven
The fermatas on the opening short-short-short-LONG motif are among the most debated in orchestral performance -- how long is long enough?
Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough -- Michael Jackson
The held vocal on the chorus peak functions as an informal fermata, stretching the climactic note for dramatic effect.
A Day in the Life -- The Beatles
The final piano and orchestra chord is held for nearly a minute -- a studio fermata of spectacular length and deliberate intent.
Related music terms
Frequently asked questions
- What is a fermata in music?
- A fermata is a musical pause symbol indicating that a note, chord, or rest should be held for longer than its notated value -- as long as the performer or conductor feels appropriate.
- What is an example of a fermata?
- A well-known example is Symphony No. 5 in C minor by Ludwig van Beethoven: The fermatas on the opening short-short-short-LONG motif are among the most debated in orchestral performance -- how long is long enough?
- How is a fermata used in music?
- The fermata symbol (a dot inside a curved arc, resembling an eye) is called a 'bird's eye' in American vernacular. It suspends the regular pulse of music, creating a moment of silence or sustained sound outside metronomic time.
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