Martellato

Martellato is an Italian word that literally translates to "hammered", and is commonly interchanged with the French word martel&Atilde;&copy; which means the same. It is a bow technique and form of articulation for stringed instruments, including piano. Martellato is performed by the string musician by holding the bow against the string with pressure, then releasing it explosively to produce a sharp, biting attack with a rest between strokes. In the case of a piano, the musician should have fingers either touching or not far from the keys, thrusting the entire weight masses of arm and hand, giving quick, forceful attacks and releasing as quickly as possible; no pedal is used.<br>