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This site introduces unknown Emanuel Bach (C. P. E. Bach).

Appoggiatura

Asked ChatGPT4o: “Please explain the appoggiatura.”

The appoggiatura is a type of ornamentation in music, temporarily inserted into a melody. It typically appears on a strong beat or an accented beat, creating tension against the main note, which it then resolves into. The appoggiatura enriches the melodic flow and enhances emotional expression.

Characteristics of the Appoggiatura

1. Unprepared:

   • The appoggiatura is usually not prepared by the preceding chord and often appears suddenly.
   • Example: A note of a different pitch suddenly appears just before the main note.

2. Appears on a Strong Beat:

   • The appoggiatura often occurs on a strong or accented beat and resolves into the main note on a weaker beat.
   • Example: In a piece in 4/4 time, the appoggiatura appears on the first beat and resolves on the second beat.

3. Duration:

   • The appoggiatura usually has the same or longer note value than the main note. This distinguishes it from other ornaments, such as passing tones or grace notes.
   • Example: If the main note is a quarter note, the appoggiatura is often a quarter note or at least an eighth note in length.

Types of Appoggiatura

1. Ascending Appoggiatura:

   • This occurs when the appoggiatura resolves downward into the main note.
   • Example: G (appoggiatura) resolves to F (main note).

2. Descending Appoggiatura:

   • This occurs when the appoggiatura resolves upward into the main note.
   • Example: E (appoggiatura) resolves to F (main note).

Examples of Appoggiatura Usage

Baroque Music

• Johann Sebastian Bach: Bach frequently used appoggiaturas in his chorales and cantatas to add expressive depth to the melody.
  • Example: In the aria "Erbarme dich, mein Gott" from the *St. Matthew Passion* BWV 244, the appoggiatura is effectively used for emotional emphasis.

Classical Music

• Ludwig van Beethoven: Beethoven used appoggiaturas as important ornaments in his piano sonatas.
  • Example: In the second movement of *Piano Sonata No. 8*, Op. 13 "Pathétique," beautiful appoggiaturas enrich the melody.

Romantic Music

• Frédéric Chopin: Chopin frequently used appoggiaturas in his nocturnes and ballades to emphasize emotional expression.
  • Example: In *Nocturne No. 2*, Op. 9 No. 2, appoggiaturas contribute to the pieceʼs delicate expressiveness.

Conclusion

The appoggiatura is a significant ornament that introduces temporary tension in a melody, enriching emotional expression and musical flow through its resolution. From Baroque to Romantic music, many composers have effectively used appoggiaturas to add depth and expressiveness to their works. Its placement on a strong beat and its tension-resolution dynamic are key to its expressive impact.

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