Allan Holdsworth

When I first started playing, I plunked away just like everyone else. During the Sixties I played in a blues band for a few years, and I liked it. It wasn't until I was playing for a while that I made the decision to change my style from a percussive to more of a legato approach. I just wanted a different sound.

British Musician

Joshua Henry

I remember when I was rehearsing 'Scottsboro Boys,' I was in 'American Idiot,' so, every night, I was screaming, singing these high, belty Cs and Ds, and then, during the day, I would be doing these legato lines - I am very lucky that I have had the training that I have so that I could handle all of that.

American Actor

Joe Bonamassa

I don't have any legato skills; I could never figure out how to roll the notes off.

American Musician

Legato indicates seamless transitions in music, suggesting a flowing motion without interruptions.

Musical Connection

Legato is the opposite of staccato, which means notes are played in a short, detached manner.

Not Staccato

Legato often conveys a sense of calmness or fluidity in music, evoking different emotions than choppy sounds.

Emotional Expression

As an adverb, 'legato' instructs how to approach the music, often written in the score itself.

Performance Instruction

Legato guides musicians on the emotion and character the music should express.

Interpretative Guidance

'Legato' gives performers a technical focus, informing their touch and use of instruments.