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

  • ternary form A three-part musical structure (ABA) based on statement (A), contrast (B) and repetition (A).
  • polycoral Performance style developed in the late sixteenth century involving the use of two or more choirs that alternate with each other or sing together.
  • foot joint The last section of a flute, played farthest towards the right.
  • march A military piece characterized by strongly accented duple meter and clear sectional structures.
  • non-harmonic note In part writing, a note that is dissonant with other notes in the same chord.
  • con tenerezza [Italian] “With tenderness”.
  • new wave Subgenre of rock popular since the late 1970s, highly influenced by simple 1950s-style rock and roll; developed as a rejection of the complexities of art rock and heavy metal.
  • maestro [Italian] A title of respect given to a master musician.
  • terraced dynamics Expressive style typical of some early music in which volume levels shift abruptly from soft to loud and back without gradual crescendos and decrescendos.
  • variation An altered version of a rhythm, motive, or theme.
  • fine [Italian] Literally, “end”. An indication of where a composition ends when there is a repeat.
  • semitone The interval of a minor second.
  • medley A piece of music that is composed of melodies of other compositons strung together.
  • alborada [Spanish] Literally, “dawn”. Lively instrumental composition to be played at daybreak, usually in 6/8 time.
  • motet Polyphonic vocal genre, secular in the Middle Ages but sacred or devotional thereafter.