What is a tremolo in music?

Study for the NCEA Level 2 Music Exam. Prepare with flashcards, multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready and ace your test!

A tremolo is characterized as the rapid repetition of one or more notes, creating a pulsating or shimmering effect in the music. This technique can be executed on various instruments and involves playing the same note in quick succession or rapidly alternating between two notes.

The effect can enhance the emotional intensity of a piece, adding layers of texture and complexity. Tremolos are often used in both orchestral contexts and solo performances to convey tension, excitement, or to sustain a note’s presence without altering its pitch.

The other choices describe different musical concepts, such as sustained notes, ensemble playing, or vocal techniques, which do not align with the definition of tremolo.

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