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

  • phrygian The mode based upon the third note of the major scale. In the key of C major, phrygian mode would start on the key of E, and include all the notes of the C major scale.
  • hocket A Medieval practice of composition in which two voices would move in such a manner that one would be still while the other moved and vice-versa.
  • ionian In the system of modes, the ionian mode is the one based on C; therefore, it is the modern major scale.
  • R. Either Raabe or Rinaldi.
  • backbeat A style of rhythmic accentuation that puts accents on even beats. In common time this means having accents on beats 2 and 4.
  • prima volta [Italian] “First time”; may refer to the first ending of a repetition.
  • fifth An interval of five diatonic degrees, counting the first and last degree.
  • polka A lively ballroom dance of Bohemian origin in duple meter greatly, popular in the 19th century. Also a short, lyric piano composition.
  • crown The cap at the end of the head joint of a flute that unscrews to expose the cork, and which helps keep the head joint cork positioned at the proper depth of insertion.
  • impromptu [French] A single-movement piano composition of the Romantic era, usually short, with a spontaneous character.
  • habanera [Spanish] Moderate duple meter dance of Cuban origin, popular in the nineteenth century. It is based on a characteristic rhythmic figure.
  • spagnoletta [Italian] An Italian dance of the late 16th century.
  • national anthem A song, usually an anthem, a fanfare, a march, or a hymn, that is used as a national symbol.
  • un poco [Italian] A little.
  • andantino [Italian] A moderate tempo marking, which can be faster or slower than andante.