SUSTAIN PEDALS Meaning and
Definition
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A sustain pedal, also known as a damper pedal, is a common accessory used in the field of music to enhance the sound produced by a keyboard instrument, such as a piano. It is typically a pedal attached to the instrument, usually at the base, that when pressed down with a foot, holds the dampers above the strings in an open position, allowing the strings to continue vibrating and sustaining the sound.
The purpose of a sustain pedal is to alter the sound by extending the duration of the notes played, providing a longer sustain or decay. When the pedal is pressed down, the strings are left free to vibrate, producing a fuller, richer sound. As the pedal is released, the dampers return to their original position, silencing the strings and shortening the duration of the sound.
Sustain pedals are widely used in various genres of music, including classical, jazz, pop, and rock. They allow musicians to create dynamic variations and expressiveness in their performances by controlling the sound’s duration, adding depth and resonance to their playing.
In addition to pianos, sustain pedals can also be used with other keyboard instruments, such as electronic keyboards and synthesizers, which commonly feature a sustain pedal input. Some models even offer alternative pedal functions, such as softening or providing additional tonal effects, further expanding the range of musical expression.
Common Misspellings for SUSTAIN PEDALS
- austain pedals
- zustain pedals
- xustain pedals
- dustain pedals
- eustain pedals
- wustain pedals
- systain pedals
- shstain pedals
- sjstain pedals
- sistain pedals
- s8stain pedals
- s7stain pedals
- suatain pedals
- suztain pedals
- suxtain pedals
- sudtain pedals
- suetain pedals
- suwtain pedals
- susrain pedals
- susfain pedals
Etymology of SUSTAIN PEDALS
The word "sustain pedals" has its roots in music terminology.
The term "pedal" refers to a foot-operated lever or control. In the context of musical instruments, it typically refers to a device that alters the sound produced by the instrument. The word "sustain" refers to the length or duration of a musical note or sound.
The etymology of the term can be traced back to the development of pianos in the 18th century. The sustain pedal, also known as the damper pedal, is a pedal found on pianos that, when pressed and held down, raises all the dampers from the strings. This allows the strings to vibrate freely, resulting in a sustained sound even after the pianist releases the keys.
