Ritengo

Ritengo is an Italian musical term that functions as a directive for performers, indicating that a note or passage should be held or sustained longer than its written duration. The word literally translates to "I hold" or "I sustain" in Italian, reflecting its primary function in musical notation.

This expressive marking belongs to the category of tempo and articulation indicators that composers use to convey their intended musical interpretation. When encountered in sheet music, ritengo instructs musicians to extend the duration of specific notes, creating a sense of lingering or suspension that adds emotional depth to the performance.

The term is commonly used in classical music compositions, particularly in works from the Romantic period where expressive interpretation plays a crucial role. Performers must exercise musical judgment when applying ritengo, as the exact duration of extension varies based on the musical context, style period, and individual artistic interpretation.

Ritengo differs from related terms such as "tenuto" or "fermata" in its specific emphasis on personal expression and subtle timing alterations. While tenuto indicates a note should be held for its full value or slightly longer, and fermata calls for a more dramatic pause, ritengo suggests a gentle elongation that enhances the musical phrase's emotional character.

The marking typically appears above or below the staff in vocal music, or above the staff in instrumental notation. Its placement indicates which specific notes or passages should receive this special treatment. Modern performers, particularly in classical and operatic contexts, study the proper application of such markings to authentically interpret composers' intentions while maintaining stylistic accuracy.