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

  • anonymous A person whose name is unknown.
  • overture An introductory movement, as in an opera or oratorio, often presenting melodies from arias to come. Also an orchestral work for concert performance.
  • ensemble [French] A group of musicians that perform as a unit.
  • religioso [Italian] Religious, devout.
  • fourth An interval of four diatonic scale tones, counting the first and last tone.
  • ledger line Short, horizontal line added to the top or the bottom of a staff for the reception of a note too high or too low to be represented on the staff.
  • orchestra An instrumental ensemble, usually fairly large, with string, brass, woodwind sections, and possibly a percussion section as well.
  • ictus [Latin] The instant when a beat occurs.
  • gizmo key On a flute, an optional key on the B foot joint which can enhance the responsiveness of C7 (the highest C playable on a flute).
  • moins [French] “Less”.
  • countersubject The secondary theme of a fugue, heard against the subject.
  • innocentemente Innocently.
  • chord progression Series of chords played in order.
  • polonaise [French] Stately Polish processional dance in triple meter.
  • spinto [Italian] A term describing a lyric voice, usually that of a soprano or tenor, that can also achieve powerful, dramatic effects. Also, a part written for a voice of such character.