AQA GCSE Music Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 400

What does a fermata indicate in sheet music?

To play the note softer

To hold a note or rest longer than usual

A fermata in sheet music indicates that a musician should hold a note or rest longer than its usual duration. This notation, often represented by a symbol that looks like a dot with a semicircle above it, signals to performers to take an expressive pause, allowing for greater interpretative flexibility and dramatic effect. The length of this holding can depend on the performer's discretion or the conductor's instruction, giving it a personal touch in the performance.

The other options do not accurately reflect the function of a fermata: it does not instruct the musician to play softer, repeat a section, or perform with less expression. Instead, it emphasizes prolongation and expressiveness, enhancing the musical phrasing.

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To repeat the section

To perform with less expression

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