Question

What is the musical definition of the term "Arpeggio"?

Answer 1

An arpeggio is a chord whose notes are played one after the other instead of simultaneously — i.e., the notes of a chord sounded in sequence. It’s often called a "broken chord."

Typical points:
- Execution: notes can be played ascending, descending, or in any order (often rapidly).
- Notation: commonly indicated by a vertical wavy line beside the chord (or special arpeggio markings); sometimes an up or down arrow shows direction.
- Examples: a C major arpeggio played bottom-to-top would sound C–E–G–C; on guitar sweep-picking or harp-plucking produces arpeggiated effects.
- Distinction: a single rolled or arpeggiated chord (a quick spread of the chord) is a type of arpeggio; longer patterns that repeat chord tones are usually described as broken-chord patterns or arpeggio figures.

Etymology: from Italian arpeggiare, “to play on a harp.”