Re: [Harp-L] vibrato vs. tremolo 2

[Jonathan Ross <jross38@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

> The definitions and examples that I offered are consistent with  
> published authority and have merit because they are neither  
> instrument-dependent nor ambiguous.

Yes, but universal definitions are useless here.  These terms are  
instrument dependent, and divorcing them from that doesn't elucidate  
or eliminate sloppiness, rather it muddies the waters by divorcing  
current use from past use.  I'd rather that organists, singers,  
flautists and others be able to understand the terms and texts of  
their predecessors than force everything into some pointless and  
unnecessary common current.  Unnecessary because only musicians use  
these terms and then usually only within their own instrument groups-- 
so there is no lack of understanding, rather the opposite.

> Without a "single, overarching way of using the terms 'tremolo' and  
> 'vibrato' ", the confusion addressed in this thread continues, our  
> musical language is less clear, and Dekker's question arises again  
> and again.

So what?  It simply allows for a teachable moment again and again.

> We can have a similar discussion about "glissando" and  
> "portamento".   ;o)

Fine.  This isn't like the mechanics of the harmonica--there is no  
absolute or definitive answer possible.


JR Ross