Which term means ‘sustain full value’?

• A. Tenuto
• B. Portato
• C. Con amore
• D. Rinforzando

Answer: (A)

Tenuto is the articulation that tells you to hold a note for its full written value, often with a bit of extra weight but without shortening it. The symbol is a small horizontal line above or below the note, and it signals sustained, even emphasis across the note’s duration. This matches the idea of “sustain full value.”

In contrast, portato sits between legato and light detachment—notes are connected but lightly separated, so they aren’t held for full value. Con amore is an expressive direction meaning to play with tenderness, not related to duration. Rinforzando, or rinforzando, calls for a stronger emphasis or accent on a note or chord, focusing on attack rather than prolonging its length.