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

  • Dixieland An early style of jazz originating in the early 20th century in New Orleans with a simple, cheerful character.
  • word painting Musical depiction of words in text. Using the device of word painting, the music tries to imitate the emotion, action, or natural sounds as described in the text.
  • form The structure of a composition, the frame upon which it is constructed.
  • SATB An abbreviation used to denote the number of voice parts in a vocal composition. It implies that the composition has one soprano part, one alto part, one tenor part, and one bass part. Common variants of this are: SSATTB (Soprano in two-parts, Alto, Tenor in two-parts , and Bass), SSATB, SSA, TTBB, etc.
  • theme and variations A style of composition that first presents a basic theme and then develops and alters that theme in successive statements.
  • 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.
  • mezzo-soprano [Italian] The female voice between soprano and contralto.
  • offset G On a flute, a G key which is extended to the side of the other two left-hand finger keys (along with the G♯ key), thus requiring less bending of the wrist, rendering it easier to reach and cover effectively, and less uncomfortable and fatiguing to play.
  • melodrama A spoken dialogue that is accompanied by music.
  • incidental music Music written to accompany dramatic works.
  • Raabe numbers A numbering system identifying compositions by Franz Liszt.
  • anthem A choral setting of an English religious text similar to a motet, usually used in church with or without organ accompaniment.
  • popular music Music of the common people.
  • lesto [Italian] Quick, swift.
  • texture The interweaving of melodic (horizontal) and harmonic (vertical) elements in the musical fabric. Texture is generally described as monophonic (single line), heterophonic (elaboration on a single line), homophonic (single line with accompaniment), or polyphonic (many voiced).