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

  • calmando [Italian] Getting calm or quiet.
  • string quintet Standard chamber ensemble made up of either two violins, two violas and cello, or two violins, viola and two cellos.
  • tonguing In the performance of wind instruments, the technique of using the tongue to produce certain sounds and effects, and especially the technique in which notes are attacked and articulated.
  • transcription Either notating an unnotated piece, or rewriting a piece, either simply recopying, as for clarity, or as an arrangement for another instrument.
  • degree Any tone of the diatonic scale.
  • répertoire [French] A list of compositions that an individual or ensemble is prepared to perform or that are available for performance.
  • direct motion Similar or parallel motion in which two or more parts rise or fall in the same direction simultaneously.
  • tenuto [Italian] A directive to perform a certain note or chord of a composition in a sustained manner for longer than its full duration.
  • Abendmusik [German] Evening music, usually religious in nature, originating in the 17th century.
  • A440 The standard tuning of the A above middle C at 440 Hz.
  • quarter note A note having the time duration of one fourth of a whole note.
  • pantonality Term used to describe music that is not in one tonality or key, but shifts freely among many or all keys.
  • fluttertonguing Wind instrument technique in which the tongue is fluttered or trilled against the roof of the mouth.
  • fois [French] “Time”, as in “first time” (première fois) or “second time” (deuxieme fois).
  • fanfare A short, lively, loud, militaristic composition, usually composed for brass instruments and percussions.