taktchanging

Taktchanging is a term originating from German that describes the act of changing the tempo or rhythm of a piece of music. It refers to deliberate and often noticeable alterations in speed or beat, deviating from the established tempo. This can manifest in various ways, such as a gradual acceleration (accelerando), a gradual slowing down (ritardando), or sudden shifts in speed. Composers use taktchanging to create emotional impact, build tension, or highlight specific musical phrases. Performers may also employ rubato, a flexible interpretation of tempo, to achieve expressive taktchanging. The effectiveness of taktchanging depends on its musical context and how well it serves the overall artistic intention of the piece.