Definition

Noun: * A pedal on a piano that lifts the dampers from the strings and so allows them to continue vibrating: The sustaining pedal is the rightmost pedal on most pianos. When pressed, it raises all the dampers (small felt pads) off the piano strings. This allows the strings to vibrate freely, so notes continue to sound ("sustain") after the keys are released, creating a fuller, richer, and more connected sound.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The pianist used the sustaining pedal to create a smooth, legato phrase.
  • For a clearer, more detached sound, avoid using the sustaining pedal.
  • Learning to control the sustaining pedal is essential for intermediate piano technique.

Advanced Usage

• "To apply the sustaining pedal": To press the pedal down.
  • Apply the sustaining pedal at the beginning of the measure.
• "To release the sustaining pedal": To let the pedal come back up.
  • Release the sustaining pedal completely to clear the sound before the next chord.
• "Pedaling": The technique of using the pedal(s).
  • Her pedaling in the romantic piece was very expressive.

Variants and Related Words

• Damper pedal: Another common name for the sustaining pedal, referring directly to its function of lifting the dampers.
• Loud pedal: An informal, somewhat misleading historical name, as its primary function is to sustain notes rather than simply make them louder.
• Una corda pedal: The left pedal on a piano, which softens the sound.
• Sostenuto pedal: The middle pedal on some pianos, which sustains only the notes that are being held down when the pedal is pressed.

Synonyms

• Damper pedal (noun): The most direct technical synonym.
• Right pedal (noun): A descriptive synonym based on its position.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "To pedal a note/chord": To use the sustaining pedal while playing a specific note or chord.
  • Remember to pedal the bass note to anchor the harmony.

Noun

1. a pedal on a piano that lifts the dampers from the strings and so allows them to continue vibrating