Rubato is a common technique used in many types of music, including classical, jazz, and popular music. Students who are learning to play an instrument or studying music theory need to understand the concept of rubato and how to apply it in their playing. In this article, we will discuss what rubato is and share tips for teaching students about rubato music.

What is Rubato Music?

Rubato is an Italian term that means “stolen time.” In music, rubato refers to the practice of subtly speeding up and slowing down the tempo of a piece to give it a more expressive and emotive quality. Rubato requires a great deal of sensitivity on the part of the performer, as the tempo changes must be made in a way that feels natural and not forced.

Rubato is often used in slower, more lyrical pieces, such as ballads or love songs. It can also be used in faster, more rhythmically complex pieces, such as jazz or Latin music. The goal of using rubato is to create a sense of intimacy and emotional depth in the music, making it more engaging and memorable.

Teaching Rubato to Students

Teaching students about rubato can be a bit tricky, as it requires a delicate touch and a great deal of musical sensitivity. Here are some tips to help you teach rubato music to your students:

1. Start with simple pieces

If your students are just starting to learn about rubato, it’s best to start with simple pieces that have a slow, steady tempo. This will allow them to focus on the nuances of rubato without getting overwhelmed by a complex piece.

2. Emphasize the emotional impact

Rubato is all about creating an emotional impact in the music. Make sure your students understand that rubato is not just about changing the tempo, but about using tempo changes to enhance the emotional impact of the piece.

3. Teach them to listen

Listening is an essential skill when it comes to rubato. Encourage your students to listen carefully to recordings of pieces that use rubato so they can better understand how it’s used in practice.

4. Use visual aids

Visual aids like sheet music or musical notation can help students understand where rubato is applied in the piece. Highlight the sections of the music that call for rubato, and go over the notation with your students so they can see how it’s written.

5. Practice, practice, practice

Rubato is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Encourage your students to practice using rubato regularly and provide feedback and guidance to help them improve.