Expression

Accent

A note played with extra emphasis.

In plain English

An accent makes one note stand out from those around it. That emphasis might come from playing louder, striking differently, or giving the note a sharper beginning.

Try or listen for this

In a drum groove, accenting beats 2 and 4 can make the backbeat feel clear and energetic.

Why it matters

Accents shape feel and phrasing. The right notes can still sound flat if every note is given equal weight.