glissando sul ponticello
Italian composer
Definition
A sliding gesture along the piano strings near the hitch pins, producing a continuous glissando with a bright, metallic timbre.
Interpretive Guidance
Run a fingernail or plectrum along the bass strings while the sustain pedal is engaged. The speed and pressure of the slide determines whether the effect sounds menacing or dreamlike. Crumb frequently uses this to transition between sections.