What characterizes staccato notes?

Staccato notes are characterized by being played short and detached, which is indicated by the staccato marking above or below the note. When musicians play staccato, they produce a sound that is crisp and separated from the following note, creating a dotted or leaping effect in the music. This style contrasts sharply with legato playing, where notes are connected smoothly and seamlessly. The shortness of each staccato note allows for greater rhythmic variety and can add a lively or playful character to a piece.