tone cluster
English era
Definition
A chord formed by playing a group of adjacent notes simultaneously, typically executed with the flat of the palm, fist, or forearm rather than individual fingers. Used by Ginastera in the Suite de Danzas Criollas, II (Allegro rustico) to evoke the percussion-like, physical energy of the gato dance.
Interpretive Guidance
Read the score carefully for exactly which keys form the cluster and which hand position is specified. Execute with the weight of the arm rather than a blow from the wrist. The sound should be dense and rhythmically precise — not a crash, but a struck chord.