Bariolage

/ˌbæriəˈlɑːʒ/ noun

Definition

A violin technique where the bow rapidly moves between different strings while playing the same note, creating a trembling or shimmering effect.

Etymology

From French 'bariolage', derived from 'bariole' meaning 'motley' or 'variegated', referring to the visual effect of the bow moving across multiple colored strings.

Kelly Says

This word perfectly captures how classical musicians borrowed from the visual arts—'variegated' like a patchwork quilt describes a sound, not a sight!

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