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Vibrato Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vibrato

[vɪˈbrɑː.təʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

A technique used in music to produce a fluctuation of pitch. It is often characterized by a rapid, slight variation in pitch, used to add expression and emotion to a musical performance.

Synonyms

quaver, tremolo.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vibrato

Often used in music to describe a technique where the pitch of a note is quickly wobbled to produce a rich, warm sound.

  • The violinist added a beautiful vibrato to enhance the emotional depth of the piece.
  • She used vibrato to make the notes sound more expressive.
tremolo

Used in music to describe a rapid repetition of a single note or alternating between two notes, creating a trembling effect. It's common in string and keyboard instruments.

  • The pianist's tremolo added a thrilling intensity to the performance.
  • She played a dramatic tremolo on her guitar, making the song more dynamic.
quaver

Typically used in music to denote a specific note length, which is an eighth note in standard notation. It can also refer to a trembling sound in someone's voice, often due to emotion or nervousness.

  • The piece started with a series of quick quavers, setting a lively tempo.
  • His voice quavered with emotion as he delivered the speech.

Examples of usage

  • The violinist used vibrato to add warmth to her performance.
  • The singer's vibrato added a touch of drama to the song.
Context #2 | Noun

singing

A slight fluctuation in pitch when singing, used to add richness and depth to the voice. It is a common technique among professional singers to enhance the quality of their vocal performance.

Synonyms

trill, warble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vibrato

Used primarily in music to describe a slight, rapid variation in pitch to enhance the sound of a note. Commonly used in singing, string instruments, and brass instruments.

  • The violinist's use of vibrato added emotional depth to the solo.
  • Her beautiful vibrato could be heard in every note she sang.
warble

Describes a quavering or melodic series of sounds, often used to describe birdsong. Can also refer to a similar effect in the human voice or certain musical instruments, but generally has a more natural, less refined connotation.

  • The canary's warble filled the room with cheerful sounds.
  • He tried to sing, but his voice warbled uncontrollably.
trill

Refers to a musical ornament consisting of the rapid alternation between two adjacent notes. Often used in various forms of classical music.

  • The pianist executed the trill at the end of the piece flawlessly.
  • The bird's song was full of delightful trills.

Examples of usage

  • The opera singer's vibrato was powerful and controlled.
  • She practiced for hours to perfect her vibrato technique.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Music Theory

  • Vibrato is typically produced by alternating the pitch up and down, usually at a rate of 5-7 oscillations per second.
  • It can be created using various techniques, including the natural oscillation of the vocal cords for singers or through manipulation of instruments like violins and guitars.

Cultural Impact

  • In jazz and blues, vibrato is essential to create a soulful, expressive sound, influencing the emotional delivery of the music.
  • Famous singers known for their vibrato include Aretha Franklin and Luciano Pavarotti, each incorporating it uniquely in their performances.

Psychological Aspect

  • Research shows that vibrato can evoke emotions in listeners, enhancing the connection to music.
  • People often correlate vibrato with higher technical skill, thus influencing their perception of a singer's or musician's talent.

Performance Techniques

  • Many vocal coaches teach vibrato as a technique that should be developed naturally over time rather than forced, emphasizing relaxation.
  • Different musical genres utilize vibrato differently; classical musicians often use a slower and wider vibrato compared to faster styles in pop and rock.

Origin of 'vibrato'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'vibrato' comes from the Italian word 'vibrare', which means 'to shake' or 'to vibrate'.
  • The use of vibrato can be traced back to the 16th century in music, where it was often employed to add emotion to vocal performances.

The term 'vibrato' originated from Italian, meaning 'vibrating'. It has been used in music for centuries to enhance the emotional impact of performances. Vibrato is a fundamental technique in both instrumental music and singing, adding depth and expression to the sound. Over time, it has become a recognized and essential element of musical expression.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,219, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.