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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Found a word you don't know? No problem. Look it up in the Music Glossary!

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

  • R. Either Raabe or Rinaldi.
  • transposing instrument Those instruments which are notated in one key on paper, yet sound another key when they are performed.
  • presto [Italian] Fast tempo marking, usually around 168–192 BPM.
  • syllabic The style of chant which sets one note to each syllable of text.
  • double tonguing A technique used in playing the flute and brass instruments which allows notes to be played in rapid succession. It is achieved by rapidly forming the consonants “T” and “K” in quick succession.
  • larghetto [Italian] A tempo not quite as slow as largo, usually around 60–66 BPM.
  • part song A vocal composition for two or more voices, usually unaccompanied.
  • locrian A mode based upon the seventh tone of the major scale.
  • fundamental A base pitch from which a series of harmonics is produced.
  • libretto [Italian] A “little book” that contains the complete text of an opera, oratorio, and so forth.
  • licenza [Italian] A directive to perform a certain passage with some freedom of manner.
  • madrigal choir Small vocal ensemble that specializes in a cappella secular works.
  • polonaise [French] Stately Polish processional dance in triple meter.
  • amorevole [Italian] Loving, affectionate.
  • postlude A composition that concludes a larger composition. Also, a composition performed at the end of a church service as the congregation leaves.