David Elliott wrote:In reading over some of these posts again, I think the terms "Vibrato" and "Tremolo" are sometimes used interchangeably, while in fact, they are really two different things.
Yes these terms do get jumbled up a lot, don't they? As you say, David, often by advertisers but, also by famous people who just use the terms "incorrectly" (when speaking only).
I do think much of the problem is that the terms evolved to define vocal techniques, and then these techniques were mimicked by various instruments, each which required / allowed for, a unique approach - i.e many instruments can do several techniques simultaneously. On top of this, different instruments will use an effect for different reasons. For example, singers usually use tremolo for emotional effect whereas many instrumentalists use it in lieu of sustain.
And, just to make sure it gets even more messy, many of these kinds of words are/were taken from everyday language, where they have/had slightly different meanings (that are also evolving), and have been adapted for musical use over the centuries. Eek.
Anyway, as I understand it, and for what it is worth...
Tremolo is/was generally meant to describe the rapid reiteration of the same note. Trill did/does involve a change of pitch. Although these two terms have really become so interchangeable that you just gotta ask exactly what is meant when speaking with somebody about them.
Vibrato can/could either involve a change in pitch or not. Both singers and and most instruments can create a vibrato either way. Singers can minutely fluctuate the pitch, or just alter the pressure of their breath, or both. String players can pulsate their finger horizontally (no pitch change), or vertically, or both.
The difference between the terms really seems to be a question of degree and purpose. The term tremolo is generally thought to explain a more defined effect - you could likely more or less notate most tremolos and trills. The term vibrato tends to define a more subtle, more spontaneous, more emotional idea.
As you know, Chet had an astounding ability to be both subtle and complex when it came to these techniques. He could vibrato his tremolo, or trill his vibrato, or you name it.
Actually, let's not name it...
Randy
... Seriously... Those are some very interesting links... Thanks.