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

  • attack The method of beginning a phrase.
  • riser A metal section on the head joint of a flute, shaped like a ‛top hat with the top cut off’, which raises the lip plate from the head joint tube.
  • cavatina [Italian] Originally, a short song of simple character, without a second strain or any repetition of the air. It is now frequently applied to a simple melodious air, as distinguished from a brilliant aria or recitative, and often forms part of a large movement or scena in oratorio or opera.
  • canzone [Italian] Literally, “song”. An Italian or Provençal song or ballad. It is also used to describe a type of lyric which resembles a madrigal. Sometimes a composition which is simple and songlike is designated as a canzone, especially if it is by a non-Italian.
  • piece A term for any composition that is a complete work in itself. This could be a self-contained movement of a larger composition, such as an aria of an opera, or the entire composition.
  • duple meter A rhythmic pattern with the the number of beats per measure being divisible by two.
  • grosso [Italian] Large, great, grand.
  • libero [Italian] Literally, “free”. A directive to perform in a free, unrestrained style.
  • buffo [Italian] Comic, humorous.
  • al segno [Italian] A directive to return to the sign.
  • A440 The standard tuning of the A above middle C at 440 Hz.
  • locrian A mode based upon the seventh tone of the major scale.
  • tonic The note upon which a scale or key is based.
  • gentile [Italian] Gentle, kind.
  • anthem A choral setting of an English religious text similar to a motet, usually used in church with or without organ accompaniment.