Glissando is a when you slide a finger on a string from one note to another. The word comes originally from the French word glisser which means to glide. A portamento is when you slide from a note or to a note but do not connect the two notes.
Watch this instructional video on what is, how to play, and different types of glissando. Learn the differences between glissando and portamento. Hear how different glissando’s can sound using varying speeds, amounts, volumes, and lengths. Glissando is used in all genres of music and is a great part of musical expression.