Fermata
Definition
A fermata is a symbol placed above a note or rest that indicates it should be held longer than its normal duration.
Analogy
Imagine you're taking a picture with your friends. When someone says "hold it," everyone freezes in their pose until they hear "okay." Similarly, when you see a fermata in sheet music, it's like freezing on that note until the conductor gives the signal to move on.
Related terms
Pause/Rest: A moment of silence indicated by an empty space in the sheet music.
Tempo: The speed at which music is performed.
Expression Markings: Symbols used to indicate dynamics (loudness/softness) and other expressive elements in music notation.
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