Paussmärke

Paussmärke is a Swedish term that can be translated to "pause mark" or "breathing mark." It refers to a small, often circular or semicircular, symbol placed above a musical note or rest. Its primary function is to indicate to the performer that they should take a brief pause or breath at that point in the music.

The length of the pause indicated by a paussmärke is not precisely defined and can vary depending on the musical style, tempo, and the performer's interpretation. Generally, it suggests a short, natural interruption rather than a prolonged silence. Composers use paussmärken to shape the phrasing and articulation of a melody, allowing for better clarity and expressiveness. It can also be used to separate musical phrases or to create a sense of anticipation before the next section of music.

In some contexts, a paussmärke might be used interchangeably with a fermata, although a fermata typically indicates a longer and more significant hold or pause. The paussmärke is a more subtle indication of a brief pause. Its presence is a subtle cue for the musician to inject a moment of breath or slight separation, enhancing the musical flow and narrative.