Changing volume (dynamics) is one way to create interest in a song. Another way to create interest is by changing the way each note is played. Look at the figure above. In the first measure, a dot is added over the top of an F note. This dot is called a "staccato" marking. This marks tells the player to strike the note sharply (very short and abruptly). In the middle measure there is a short line (dash) drawn over the top of an F note. It is the opposite of "staccato." This line is called a "legato" marking. This mark tells the player to give the note a dull strike and hold the note for its full value. In the last measure, there is an arrow-looking symbol drawn over the top of an F note. This symbol is called an "accent" mark (sforando accent). This mark tells the player to strike the note harder, not shorter or longer, just harder.