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

  • stabile [Italian] Firm.
  • ostinato [Italian] Literally, “obstinate”. A short melodic, rhythmic, or harmonic pattern that is repeated throughout a composition.
  • 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.
  • articulation The manner in which adjacent notes of a melody are connected or separated. Woodwind and brass instruments generally articulate by tonguing, the use of the tongue to break the airflow into the instrument.
  • empfindungsvoll [German] Feelingly.
  • andante [Italian] Literally, “going”. A moderate tempo marking, usually around 76–108 BPM.
  • quadrille [French] An early 19th century ballroom dance for four or more couples.
  • ricapitolazione [Italian] Recapitulation.
  • madrigal choir Small vocal ensemble that specializes in a cappella secular works.
  • echo A repetition or mimicking of a certain passage, usually with less force and volume than the original statement.
  • mancando [Italian] A directive for the volume to grow quieter and die away.
  • ruggiero [Italian] A musical scheme which is at times harmonic and at times melodic. It is seen in 16th and 17th century music, for both vocal and instrumental pieces and improvisations.
  • fortissimo [Italian] Very loud, louder than forte.
  • mezzo forte [Italian] Moderately loud. Not quite so loud as forte.
  • Opp. [Latin] Plural of Op.