Arpeggio
Pronunciation: Ar-PED-ji-oe
What is an Arpeggio?
Arpeggio is a musical theory also known as a broken chord. There are many types of broken chords, and arpeggio is simply described when the notes on a chord are played one by one, rather than at the same time.
Key Takeaways
- Arpeggio means broken chord and means playing notes one after the other.
- The notes are played either in an ascending or descending order.
- Arpeggios are a musical technique that adds rhythm to an accompaniment.
Understanding Arpeggio
It comes from the Italian world, “arpeggiare,” which means “to play on a harp.” Harpists pluck the strings of a harp one after the other to play notes and chords, which is where the term is derived from.
This musical theory is extremely pleasing to hear. Its characteristic of smooth ascension and descent creates a very satisfying effect. Musicians can use this musical theory on a guitar or piano.
Related Terms
Chromatic A chromatic scale is a 12-pitch scale, each being a semi note or half-step, which are above or below the last note. more
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