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

  • jota [Spanish] A type of Spanish dance song characterized by a quick triple meter and guitar and castanet accompaniment.
  • monothematic Work or movement based on a single theme.
  • Gregorian chant Monophonic melody with a freely flowing, unmeasured vocal line; liturgical chant of the Roman Catholic Church.
  • niente [Italian] Literally, “nothing”. With almost no sound.
  • fine [Italian] Literally, “end”. An indication of where a composition ends when there is a repeat.
  • burlesco [Italian] Jocular, in a playful style.
  • comodamente [Italian] Comfortably.
  • double [French] During the Baroque period, a repetition or variation of an air or a dance that adds extra notes and/or ornaments.
  • villereccio [Italian] Rustic, rural.
  • vocalise [French] A vocal exercise that is sung without words, typically using different vowel sounds.
  • cabaletta [Italian] A form of aria within 19th century Italian opera. It is usually found as the last part of a double aria, with the scena, cantabile and the tempo di mezzo preceeding it. It is often in a fast tempo.
  • principal A section leader in a large ensemble (band or orchestra) also called first chair, except for the first violins, where the leader is termed the concertmaster.
  • lointain [French] “Distant”, “faraway”.
  • roulade [French] A highly ornamented vocal composition, usually for one voice and accompaniment.
  • schneller [German] Faster.