Tremolando

Definition

Term for the rapid up-and-down movement of a bow on a stringed instrument creating an agitated, restless effect.

Tremolando also describes rapid alternation of two different notes at least a 3rd apart played on piano, strings, wind, brass and tuned percussion instruments.

Examples

Listen to the violin playing during the first minute of music from Mahler's Symphony No.2

Watch how the xylophone plays tremolando, and how that differs from rolls.