Slur

A slur is a curved line drawn across any set of consecutive notes in the same part. The slur starts and ends with a particular note, and can include a minimum of two notes.
- The curved line groups the set of notes together.
- The notes at either end, and any in between the two in the same part, are said to be slurred.
- This marking fulfils a number of different functions (see below) and only one of them is strictly called a slur, but the curved line tends to be referred to as a slur, even if it is not actually fulfilling that role.
- The curved line can look identical to a tie, and should not be confused with it.
A slur is a generic device with several different meanings:
1. The most common is an indication of phrasing, and means that the notes slurred together should be played smoothly, without any breaks (legato).
  - This can apply to a whole phrase, for example 4 or 8 bars, or a few notes or just two notes.
  - In any case it tends to indicate that there is to be a very slight break at the end of the phrase.
  - In vocal music, or music for a wind instrument, this could indicate where a breath is to be taken
  - On instruments where a breath is not required, a slight break at the end of a phrase (as if a breath is taken) adds to the feeling of structure of the piece.
  - Hierarchical levels of phrasing are possible, in other words, sub-phrases within a phrase.
2. In vocal music, notes slurred together are all to be sung to the same syllable that is written above or below the first slurred note.
3. In music for wind instruments, notes slurred together should be played without any tonguing, which give a very smooth effect. This is simply a slightly more specific indication of legato.
4. In music for stringed instruments, notes slurred together are to be played with one bow, that is, with one bowing movement, up or down, without a change of direction. This is also a form of indication of legato.

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