tepsik

Tepsik is a Neapolitan musical term that denotes a short, ascending arpeggio or broken chord played with the thumb on a Neapolitan guitar or mandolin. The term is used to describe a specific type of melodic phrase used in the music of Naples, particularly in the 'Tarantella Napoletana' and other traditional pieces.

The tepsik typically consists of a short sequence of notes, usually three or four, that are played in a light, delicate manner. This technique is often used in the left-hand accompaniment of a Tarantella or similar piece, providing a subtle counterpoint to the melodic line being played with the right hand.

Tepsik is usually played in a subtle, restrained manner, often in a slow to moderate tempo. The notes are typically played in a smooth, even tone, with the thumb acting as a drone or a form of harmonic support. In addition to its functional role in providing harmonic background, the tepsik is also used to create melodic interest and tension in the music.

The use of tepsik is particularly prevalent in the traditional music of Naples, where it is often used to add color and texture to the melodic line. It has been a part of Neapolitan music-making for centuries, contributing to the characteristic timbre and phrasing of the region's distinctive musical idiom.