Definition

Verb: - To articulate very fast notes on a wind instrument (especially a brass instrument) using a specialized tonguing technique. The technique involves a specific three-part syllable pattern (often "ta-ta-ka" or "ta-ka-ta") to produce rapid, clean sequences of notes.

Usage

This verb is used specifically in the context of playing wind instruments, particularly brass and woodwind instruments, to describe the advanced technique required for rapid passages. - The musician must triple-tongue cleanly to execute the difficult solo. - To play the rapid-fire section of the piece, you need to learn how to triple-tongue effectively.

Examples

• The trumpet player practiced for hours to triple-tongue the arpeggios perfectly.
• This etude is designed to help students triple-tongue with even rhythm and tone.
• It's harder to triple-tongue on a low brass instrument like the tuba.

Advanced Usage

• Triple-tonguing is often contrasted with double-tonguing (using a two-syllable pattern like "ta-ka"). Triple-tonguing is typically used for passages in groups of three or multiples of three, while double-tonguing is for groups of two.
  • For the triplet figures, the flutist used triple-tonguing.

Variants and Related Words

• Double-tongue (verb): To articulate notes using a two-syllable pattern (e.g., "ta-ka").
• Triple-tonguing (noun): The act or technique of triple-tonguing.
  • His triple-tonguing was impeccable during the performance.

Synonyms

• Articulate rapidly (a more general phrase).
• Execute fast tonguing (a descriptive phrase within musical context).

Notes

• This is a highly specialized term used almost exclusively in musical instruction and performance. It is an intransitive verb (it does not take a direct object; you triple-tongue an instrument or a passage).
• The technique is crucial for playing certain classical, jazz, and march music repertoire.

Verb

1. play fast notes on a wind instrument