stillstandsform

Stillstandsform, also known as "stillstand" or "stillstandsstil," is a term used primarily in the context of Norwegian folk music and traditional dance. It refers to a specific rhythmic pattern or musical phrase that serves as a transitional or concluding element in a piece, often marking a pause or a moment of stillness before the music resumes or concludes.

The term originates from the Norwegian word *stillstand*, meaning "standstill" or "pause," reflecting the musical effect it produces. In traditional Norwegian music, particularly in the genres of hardingfele (Norwegian hardanger fiddle) and hardingjævle (a type of hardingfele), stillstandsform appears as a brief, repetitive melodic or rhythmic motif. It typically consists of a series of short, syncopated notes or a simple, repetitive pattern that creates a sense of anticipation or resolution.

Stillstandsform is often found in the *springar* and *hallingspolka* dances, where it provides a rhythmic break between faster sections of the music. Musicians use it to signal a shift in tempo or to emphasize the end of a phrase. The pattern is characterized by its simplicity and predictability, making it easily recognizable to dancers and musicians alike.

While stillstandsform is most closely associated with Norwegian folk traditions, its influence can be seen in modern Norwegian folk revival music and contemporary interpretations of traditional tunes. It remains a key element in preserving the rhythmic and structural integrity of these musical styles. The term itself is not widely documented outside of Norwegian folk music circles but is understood by practitioners and scholars of the genre.