portando

Portando is an Italian musical instruction meaning “carrying” or “bearing,” and it is closely related to the concept of portamento, the smooth sliding between pitches. In scores, portando functions as a directive to perform a portamento within a melodic line, creating a continuous connection between notes rather than rearticulating each tone. The term derives from porto, “to carry.”

Usage and context: The marking is most often found in vocal and string repertoire, though it can appear in other instruments as well. A performer should execute a glide between the indicated pitches to produce a lyrical, legato line, while preserving the overall phrasing and voice leading. In some editions, portando is used interchangeably with portamento; in others, editors supply a small glissando or a curved line to indicate the glide explicitly.

Notation and distinction: Portando may appear as the word “portando” above or below the staff. It is distinct from portato, which is a articulation combining legato and staccato under a slur, producing a lightly separated yet connected effect rather than a glide.

Interpretation: The exact execution of portando can vary by instrument, tempo, and the composer’s intent. In vocal music, it often enhances the singing line; in string playing, it guides the player toward a seamless pitch connection. Overall, portando signals a glide-like connection within a melodic phrase rather than discrete, rearticulated notes.

See also: Portamento, legato, portato, articulation.