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stretto
This term is a specialized musical directive derived from the Italian word for narrow or tight. It describes a specific structural tension where the gap between the start of a musical theme and its subsequent imitation is shortened, creating a dense, overlapping texture. This technique is most commonly associated with the fugue, where it serves to heighten the dramatic intensity as a piece approaches its conclusion.
When used as an adverb or a performance instruction, it signals a tightening of the tempo or a more compressed delivery. Unlike a general accelerando, which is a gradual increase in speed, a stretto often implies a structural compression of the musical material itself, though in practical performance, it frequently results in an overall feeling of acceleration and urgency.
Meanings
Examples
The composer uses a stretto to build tension before the final cadence.
Listen to how the voices overlap in this stretto section.
The fugue reaches its climax through a series of stretto entries.
This passage is written in a stretto style to create a sense of urgency.
The stretto music in the final movement is incredibly complex.
I think the second theme enters too early for a proper stretto effect.
Play the final bars stretto to drive the piece to a thrilling conclusion.
The conductor asked the orchestra to perform the coda stretto.