Al segno is a term that is commonly used in the world of music. It is a term that is used to indicate that a musician should return to a specific point in a musical score and continue playing from there. In this article, we will explore the meaning and origins of al segno, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Al segno is an Italian term that means “to the sign.” It is a musical notation that indicates the performer should return to a specific point in the score and continue playing from there. The sign is usually a symbol that looks like a letter “S” with a vertical line through it.
Origin
The term al segno has its roots in Italian music notation. It was first used in the 17th century and has since become a standard notation in Western classical music. The notation was used to indicate the repetition of a musical section, and it was often used in dance music.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, al segno means “to the sign” in Italian, and it is used in music notation to indicate the performer should return to a specific point in the score and continue playing from there.
The Oxford English Dictionary defines al segno as “a notation in music indicating that a performer should return to a specific point in the score and continue playing from there.”
Associations
Al segno is associated with Western classical music and is often used in orchestral and chamber music. It is also used in solo instrumental music, such as piano and guitar.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for al segno include “to the sign,” “return to the sign,” and “repeat from the sign.”
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for al segno, as it is a specific musical notation. However, some opposite concepts could be “continue without repeating” or “skip the repeat.”
The same root words
The Italian word “segno” means “sign,” and it is the root word for al segno. It is also the root word for other musical notations, such as “dal segno,” which means “from the sign,” and “coda al segno,” which means “tail to the sign.”
Example Sentences
- The conductor signaled for the orchestra to go back to the al segno and repeat the section.
- The pianist missed the al segno and continued playing the wrong section.
- The composer marked the al segno in the score to indicate where the repeat should occur.
Al segno is a musical notation that is used in Western classical music to indicate the performer should return to a specific point in the score and continue playing from there. It has its roots in Italian music notation and has become a standard notation in Western classical music. Understanding the meaning and use of al segno is essential for musicians who perform classical music.