rubato
/ruˈbɑtoʊ/
noun
- A musical technique where the performer slightly speeds up or slows down the tempo for expressive effect.
- The pianist used rubato to make the melody feel more emotional.
- The teacher explained that rubato should feel spontaneous, not mechanical.
- In this piece, rubato gives the music a natural, breathing quality.
adverb
- In a manner that allows the tempo to be flexible for expression.
- The composer marked the section 'rubato' to indicate freedom in timing.
- She sang the aria rubato, stretching some notes and hurrying others.
- The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage rubato.