tenuto
A note held for its full value, sometimes slightly longer. Marked with a dash.
In Depth
Tenuto (marked with a short horizontal dash above or below the note) means held — the note should be sustained for its full written value and sometimes slightly beyond. It is the opposite of staccato, emphasizing connection and weight rather than separation.
The tenuto marking can also imply a slight emphasis or stress, drawing attention to specific notes without the sharpness of an accent. In practice, tenuto gives notes more presence and gravity. String players sustain the bow, wind players maintain steady air, and pianists hold the key down deliberately. The effect is subtle but important for shaping phrases with warmth and intention.
The tenuto marking is so subtle that it's sometimes called the invisible articulation — listeners can feel its effect without being able to pinpoint exactly what the performer did differently.