Which term refers to how notes are played or sung in music?

The term that refers to how notes are played or sung in music is articulation. Articulation encompasses the different ways in which a note can be approached and released, affecting the overall expression and clarity of the performance. For example, articulation can involve techniques like staccato (short and detached notes), legato (smooth and connected notes), accents (emphasizing certain notes), and various other techniques that influence the character of the music.

Melody relates to a sequence of musical notes that are perceived as a single entity, often forming the main theme of a piece. Harmony, on the other hand, involves the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously, creating chords that support the melody. Rhythm refers to the timing of notes and how they are organized in relation to beat and meter. While all these elements are essential to music, articulation specifically addresses the nuances of how each note is delivered, making it foundational in interpreting musical passages.