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Wavy line symbol indicates a rolled chord

A rolled chord written out on a staff as played

A rolled chord is a sequence of notes played almost at the same time like strumming a chord on a guitar. They are mostly seen on piano. They are very common, producing a harp-like effect. When a chord is too large for a pianists hand, the chord is expected to be rolled. An arpeggiated chord can be quite difficult to execute especially if spanning more than two octaves. Rolled chords are seen quite frequently in 20th century classical music. Arpeggiated chords can be rolled downward as well, notated by an arrow at the bottom of the wavy line. This however is very rare.

[edit] See also

• Arpeggio

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