Glissando definition and types
Tips for playing a glissando on the piano
When to use it
You can use the glissando just about anywhere in a song—as a fabulous introduction, as an unexpected transition, or to end the tune with a bang! Popular songs like The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” and ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” are great examples of how a gliss can be used at the beginning of a song to really get it going.
You can also use the slide to transition out of a solo or to break up the monotony in the middle—the tricky part about that is that you have to prepare for it. That dramatic flourish definitely takes a little confidence to pull off and it’s much easier with practice and planning! When ending a song with the technique, remember to cap off your glissando with the root of whatever chord you’re on.
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