Legato and Slurs
Legato means that successive notes connect without a noticeable gap. A curved slur over notes of different pitches is one common written request for that connection.
- connected sound
- curved slur
- different from a tie
What does the slur tell you?
A slur is a curved line spanning two or more notes. On piano, aim for a continuous phrase by releasing one key as the next sounds. On a wind instrument it often means no new tongue attack within the group; on strings it can indicate one bow stroke. The resulting sound should flow, even though the physical method differs.
Is a slur the same as a tie?
No. A tie connects two notes at the same pitch, so the second is not attacked again and the durations add. A slur connects notes of different pitches; every written pitch still sounds. Check the noteheads before deciding whether to hold one tone or play several.
Does a long curved line always mean finger legato?
A long curve may show a larger phrase, while shorter curves may guide local connection. Context and instrument matter. Follow the musical sentence as well as the symbol; do not force an impossible finger connection where a natural hand change preserves the sound better.
Practice the distinction
Write or imagine C4 tied to C4, then C4 slurred to D4. For the first, attack once and hold across both values. For the second, play two pitches with no gap. Articulation explains how this fits beside staccato and tenuto.