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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Please note: a music glossary is just like a dictionary. It contains explanations to musical terms. If you are looking for a piece, please go here instead: search tunes.

Some random terms

  • brio [Italian] Vivacity, spirit, liveliness.
  • Rinaldi numbers A numbering system identifying compositions by Antonio Vivaldi.
  • isorhythmic motet Medieval and early Renaissance motet based on a repeating rhythmic pattern throughout one or more voices.
  • più [Italian] “More”.
  • libretto [Italian] A “little book” that contains the complete text of an opera, oratorio, and so forth.
  • serioso [Italian] Serious, grave.
  • monotone A single sustained, unvarying tone, or a succession of notes of the same tone. Often used in the recitation of liturgical texts.
  • grand opera A style of opera that was developed in France in the 19th century that involved no spoken dialogue. It contained huge choruses, serious plots, elaborate dance episodes, ornate costumes and spectacular scenery.
  • secular Nonreligious.
  • non-imitative counterpoint A musical texture in which independent voices of different character compete for attention.
  • schnell [German] Fast.
  • Kantorei [German] The musicians of a Protestant German court.
  • con amore [Italian] “With love”, lovingly.
  • comp Jazz term used to describe the accompaniment backing up a soloist.
  • autograph A manuscript in the composer's own hand.