Fermata (Noun)
Meaning 1
A musical notation (over a note or chord or rest) that indicates it is to be prolonged by an unspecified amount.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The conductor instructed the orchestra to hold the final chord longer than the fermata indicated, creating a dramatic ending to the symphony.
- The soloist carefully observed the fermata over the high note, lingering on it for an extra beat before resolving to the next phrase.
- The composer placed a fermata over the rest at the end of the movement, allowing the audience a moment of silence before the next section began.
- The student carefully practiced the passage, making sure to give the fermata its due weight and holding the note for a full two beats.
- The fermata over the final chord of the hymn seemed to stretch the moment of reverence, as if time itself was standing still.
Meaning 2
(music) a prolongation of unspecified length on a note or chord or rest.
Classification
Nouns denoting attributes of people and objects.