Sustained

As Printed on a Score

Printed above a passage, often with tenuto lines or long slurs, asking for notes to be held for their full value; it lasts until a new articulation or character direction. It is the English form of sostenuto.

How Composers Use It

Use it to ask for full length and steady tone, especially in chords and slow lines where players might lift early. Sostenuto can also imply a slightly held-back tempo; if you mean only articulation, write full length or use tenuto lines. For winds and voice, check that each sustained phrase fits a breath.

Related Terms