What is a characteristic of arpeggios?

Arpeggios are defined as the notes of a chord played in succession rather than simultaneously. This means that in arpeggios, each note of the chord is articulated one after the other, creating a flowing melodic line rather than the static harmonic impact of playing all the notes simultaneously. This technique allows for more expressive playing and can enhance the musical texture by interweaving between melody and harmony.

The other characteristics presented do not align with the nature of arpeggios. For example, chords played all at once represent a harmonic approach, while tonal clusters refer to groups of notes that may not form traditional harmonies. Lastly, a sequence of repetitive beats does not capture the melodic essence of arpeggios but rather pertains to rhythmic patterns. Understanding the distinction of arpeggios enhances a musician's ability to interpret and execute music effectively, particularly in styles that utilize arpeggiated figures.