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

  • molto [Italian] “Very”, “much”.
  • chromaticism Use of tones extraneous to a diatonic scale (major or minor).
  • frottola [Italian] A secular song that was popular in Italy in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, direct predecessor of the madrigal.
  • ritenuto [Italian] Literally, “kept back”. Immediate reduction of speed.
  • syncopation Deliberate upsetting of the meter or pulse of a composition by means of a temporary shifting of the accent to a weak beat.
  • restez [French] A directive to remain on a note.
  • mordent An ornament indicating that a note is to be played in a single rapid alternation with the note above or below.
  • 8va [Italian] A directive to perform an octave higher than written.
  • simple meter A meter in which the main beats are subdivided into twos, such as 2/4 or 3/4.
  • octave Interval between two tones seven diatonic pitches apart; the upper tone vibrates twice as fast as the lower one.
  • verve [French] A high degree of energy, excitement or spirit. Often referred to as the artistic inspiration and special feeling of excitement that is used by artists to realize the expression of ideas in performance or composition.
  • countermelody A sequence of notes, perceived as a melody, written to be played simultaneously with a more prominent melody.
  • verismo [Italian] A term meaning “realism”, applied to Romantic works (especially operas) of the late 19th century that have to do with unpleasant realities of life.
  • head joint The top section of a flute, with the tone hole where the player initiates the sound by blowing air across the opening.
  • villanelle [French] A French term used in the 16th century for pastoral poems or songs. The term was later revived, and applied to compositions by later composers.