Multilingual Music Glossary

# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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We are currently providing explanations for 2484 terms from 12 languages, including English, Italian, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Swedish, Finnish, Latin…

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Some random terms

  • cavatina [Italian] Originally, a short song of simple character, without a second strain or any repetition of the air. It is now frequently applied to a simple melodious air, as distinguished from a brilliant aria or recitative, and often forms part of a large movement or scena in oratorio or opera.
  • slur A curved line drawn over or under a series of notes, indicating that those notes should be played legato.
  • spagnoletta [Italian] An Italian dance of the late 16th century.
  • seconda volta [Italian] “Second time”; may refer to the second ending of a repetition.
  • dolce [Italian] Sweet, soft, with tender emotion.
  • verse A single line in a metrical composition, e.g. a poem. However, the word has come to represent any division or grouping of words in such a composition, which traditionally had been referred to as a stanza.
  • grand opera A style of opera that was developed in France in the 19th century that involved no spoken dialogue. It contained huge choruses, serious plots, elaborate dance episodes, ornate costumes and spectacular scenery.
  • musico [Italian] Term applied to any musician in the 17th and 18th centuries.
  • moresca [Italian] An exotic Renaissance dance simulating a battle between the Moors and the Christians.
  • affannato [Italian] Anguished.
  • doppio [Italian] “Double”.
  • minstrel A court musician or entertainer of the 12th through 17th centuries who performed professionally.
  • diatonic Melody or harmony built from the seven tones of a major or minor scale.
  • tristamente [Italian] Sadly.
  • burden A phrase or theme that recurs at the end of each verse in a folk song or ballad.