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ABRSM Music Terms All
All the terms as featured in the Grade 5 ABRSM music exam
609
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12/03/2013

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Term
Lied -
Definition
In German, a musical term applying to any song. By the middle 1800s the lied developed into what has later been termed the artsong- a composition in which composers combined poetry and voice with piano accompanying to create a musical expression. See also chanson and madrigal.
Term
A cappella -
Definition
singing without instrumental accompaniment.
Term
A Tempo -
Definition
return to the original tempo.
Term
Absolute pitch
Definition
The ability to name a pitch or sound a pitch designated by name without assistance from any source.
Term
Accelerando -
Definition
becoming faster: a gradual increase in tempo.
Term
Accent -
Definition
stress or emphasize a note ( or chord) over others around it. Accents occur by singing the note louder or stressing the beginning consonant or vowel.
Term
Accidentals -
Definition
symbols that move the pitch up or down a half step. Sharp - raises the pitch one half step. Flat - lowers that pitch one half step. Natural - cancels a previous sharp or flat When it cancels a flat, that pitch is raised one half step: when it cancels a sharp the pitch is lowered one half step).
Term
Acoustic
Definition
Not electric, especially in refernece to a guitar or double bass.
Term
Acoustics
Definition
The science of production, propagation, and perception of sound.
Term
Ad Libitum, Ad Lib -
Definition
at will. The performer may improvise freely, omit a part, or vary the tempo.
Term
Adagio -
Definition
tempo marking indicating slow.
Term
Affabile
Definition
pleasing
Term
Affettuoso
Definition
Affectionate, tender
Term
Agitato -
Definition
agitated
Term
Al Fine -
Definition
to ending. An indicator following D.C. or D.S.. From the Latin word finis, " to finish".
Term
Alla Breve -
Definition
a duple time signature , usually 2/2.
Term
Alla mente
Definition
Improvised
Term
Allargando-
Definition
Broadening, becoming slower, sometimes with an accompanying crescendo.
Term
Allegretto -
Definition
slightly slower than allegro.
Term
Allegro -
Definition
tempo marking indicating fast.
Term
Alto -
Definition
a treble voice that is lower than a soprano, usually written in the treble clef.
Term
Altra Volta
Definition
Encore
Term
Amabile
Definition
Lovable
Term
Amaro
Definition
Bitter
Term
Anacrusis
Definition
One or more notes preceding the first metrically strong beat of a phrase; upbeat or pickup
Term
Andante -
Definition
tempo marking indicating medium or " walking" tempo.
Term
Anfang
Definition
Beginning
Term
Animato, Animoso -
Definition
animated, energetic, or spirited.
Term
Anime
Definition
animated
Term
Anmutig
Definition
Graceful
Term
Antiphonal singing
Definition
Singing in which 2 choirs alternate.
Term
Antiphony
Definition
The use of 2 or more spatially separated performers or ensembles that alternate of oppose one another in a musical work or performance.
Term
Appena
Definition
Scarcely
Term
Aria
Definition
A self contained composition for solo voice, usually with instrumental accompaniment and occurring within the context of a larger form such as a cantata.
Term
Arranger -
Definition
the person who takes an already existing composition and reorganizes it to fit a new instrumentation or voicing.
Term
Art Song -
Definition
a serious vocal composition , generally for solo voice and piano.
Term
Articulation -
Definition
the clear pronunciation of text using the lips , teeth , and tongue. The singer must attack consonants crisply and use proper vowel formation.
Term
ASCAP
Definition
Abbreviation for American Society of Composers, authors, and Publishers.
Term
Assai
Definition
Much, very much
Term
Asymmetrical Meter -
Definition
a meter in which the strong beat create combinations of groups of twos and threes. Some examples of asymmetrical meter are: 5/4, 7/8, and 10/4. Asymmetrical meters are most frequently found in music of the 20th century. Composers sometimes used asymmetrical meters to match the inflection of speech suggested in a text or simply for variety's sake.
Term
Atempause
Definition
Breathing pause, usually indicated in musical notation with an apostrophe and often a guide to phrasing as much as an indication of where wind players or singers should take a breath.
Term
Atonality
Definition
Literally the absence of tonality, the absence of key.
Term
Attacca Subito
Definition
Attack immediately, an instruction to begin the next movement immediately without the customary pause.
Term
Aufgeregt
Definition
Excited
Term
Aushalten
Definition
To sustain
Term
B.V.M.
Definition
Abbreviation for Blessed Virgin Mary (Beatae Mariae Virginis )
Term
Baisser
Definition
To lower, e.g., the tuning of a string.
Term
Ballad -
Definition
a narrative song dealing with dramatic episodes; a simpler, sentimental song; an air. Many ballads have been passed down orally fro generations.
Term
Balletto -
Definition
a 16th century vocal composition with dance-rhythms, often including phrases of nonsense syllables like " fa-la-la". Giovanni Gastoldi wrote the earliest known collection of balletti.
Term
Bandoneon
Definition
A square, entirely button-operated accordion invented in the 1840's.
Term
Bar -
Definition
see measure
Term
Barline -
Definition
a vertical line that divides the staff into smaller sections called measures. A double barline indicates the end of a section or piece of music.
Term
Baroque Period -
Definition
1600-1750 The period in western music history that extended from 1600 to about 1750; also the musical styles of that period. The style features of most Baroque music include frequent use of polyphony; fast, motor-like rhythms; and use of the chorale. Some famous Baroque Composers were Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, and Antonio Vivaldi.
Term
Bass -
Definition
a male voice written in the bass clef that is lower than a tenor voice.
Term
Bass Clef -
Definition
the symbol at the beginning of the staff used for lower voices and instruments, and the piano left hand. It generally refers to pitches lower than middle C . The two dots are on either side of F, so it is often referred to as the F clef.
Term
Bassa
Definition
Low
Term
Bassus
Definition
Bass
Term
Battery
Definition
The percussion section of the orchestra.
Term
Beat -
Definition
the unit of recurring pulse in music.
Term
Bell lyra
Definition
A portable glockenspiel on the shape of a lyre, used principally in marching bands.
Term
Benediction
Definition
A blessing, especially on pronounced on the congregation at the conclusion of a service of worship.
Term
Benedictus
Definition
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; the second part of the Mass.
Term
Bewegt
Definition
[Ger.] agitated
Term
Billy The Kid
Definition
A ballet in one act by Aaron Copland, first produced in Chicago in 1938.
Term
Bis
Definition
An instruction to repeat a passage.
Term
Bisdiapason
Definition
The interval of two octaves.
Term
Blatt
Definition
sheet, as in music.
Term
Block Chords
Definition
Chords played in such a way that all pitches are attacked simultaneously, especially on the keyboard, as in the simplest hymn settings.
Term
Blue Notes -
Definition
Notes found in the blue scale which give it a unique sound. They are flatted third and flatted seventh scales degrees of the major scale. Authentic blue notes are not exactly a flatted third or seventh, but fall somewhere between the regular third (or seventh) and the flatted third ( or seventh). See also blues.
Term
Bluegrass Music
Definition
A style of counting and western music brought to prominence in the mid- 1940's. The style is formed principally from the Anglo-American traditions of white musicians of rural Appalachia and was seen from the beginning as consciously preserving those traditions.
Term
Blues -
Definition
One of America's unique contributions to Western music. The blues is a style of music that has origins in early twentieth century African- American cultures. It combines elements of syncopation, blues notes, and many elements found in spirituals of the early American slaves. See also blues notes.
Term
Boheme, La
Definition
Opera in 4 acts by Puccini.
Term
Bomba
Definition
Traditional dance music of Puerto Rico's coastal lowlands.
Term
Bonang
Definition
A Javenense gong set employed in a gemelan ensemble. Ten to 14 kettle- shaped, knobbed gongs are set open-side down in two rows on taut cords in a wooden frame.
Term
Bossa-nova
Definition
A movement in Brazilian popular music, and in particular, a new style of samba in the late 1950's.
Term
Bourree
Definition
A lively, fluent Baroque dance movement in duple meter and binary form.
Term
Braille Musical Notation
Definition
A system of musical notation for the blind, based on the braille system.
Term
Brautlied
Definition
Bridal song
Term
Break
Definition
In jazz, a brief, fast-moving, improvised solo, usually played without any accompaniment, that serves as an introduction to a more extended solo or that occurs between passages for the ensemble.
Term
Breakdown
Definition
In U.S. folk music of the rural south beginning about 1850, an animated instrumental (especially fiddle) tune in duple meter, often to accompany dancing.
Term
Breath Mark -
Definition
(,) an indicator within a phrase or melody where the musician should breathe. See also no breath and phrase marking.
Term
Brent
Definition
Large, broad.
Term
Bridge
Definition
A transitional passage whose primary function is to connect two passages of greater weight of importance in a work as a whole.
Term
Brise
Definition
Broken, as in the arpeggiation of chords.
Term
Brummen
Definition
To hum
Term
Brunette
Definition
A type of french song of the 17th and 18th centuries for one to three voices, with or without accompaniment.
Term
Burla
Definition
In 18th century Italian opera,m a colloquial term for a comic work.
Term
Burlesque
Definition
In England beginning in the late 17th century, a satirical parody of a stage work, often of an opera.
Term
Cadence
Definition
A musical moment of rest or resolution. A cadence marks the end of a phrase or the completion of a composition.
Term
Caesura -
Definition
A break or pause between two musical phrases. Also see break.
Term
Cake walk
Definition
A dance originating among plantation slaves in the 1840's as a strutting promenade mocking the owner's manners.
Term
Calando
Definition
Decreasing in loudnesss and often in templ.
Term
Call and Response -
Definition
Alternation between two performers or groups of performers. Often used in spirituals, this technique begins with a leader ( or group) singing a phrase followed by a response of the same phrase ( or continuation of that phrase) by a second group.
Term
Calliope
Definition
An instrument consisting of tuned steam whistles played from a keyboard.
Term
Calmato
Definition
becoming calm, quiet
Term
Calore
Definition
With warmth, passionaltely
Term
Calypso -
Definition
A rhythm and song style, originally from Trinidad, that often contains satirical lyrics.
Term
Cambia
Definition
to change, as when a player is instructed to change instruments or tuning.
Term
Cancan
Definition
A French dance of the 19th century in a fast duple meter, most characteristically danced by a line of female dancers in full skirts and ruffled petticoats, with much kicking and leg exposure.
Term
Canon -
Definition
The strictest form of imitation, in which two or more parts have the same melody but start at different points. Sometimes referred to as rounds.
Term
Cantabile -
Definition
Song-like or Singable
Term
Cantata -
Definition
A large work ( originally sacred) involving solos, chorus, organ, and occasionally orchestra. The cantata tells a story through text and music.
Term
Canticle
Definition
Johann Sebastian Bach wrote a cantata fro each Sunday of the church year. A song or lyrical passage from a book of the Bible other than the book of
Term
Cantique
Definition
French word for hymn or any religious song with a french text.
Term
Canto
Definition
Italian for song, melody.
Term
Cantor
Definition
in Jewish and Latin-Christian liturgical music, a solo singer. In Gregorian and related repertories, certain melodies or parts of them are sung by one or more soloists, distinct from the chorus.
Term
Canzonetta -
Definition
A light vocal piece( from the Italian " little song") popular in Italy during the mid-1500's. Similar vocal styles appeared in England and Germany in the 1500's and 1600's. Canzonetti originally contained many stanzas and were homophonic in structure.
Term
Carol -
Definition
A song of English origin dating back to the middle ages with subject matter pertaining to the Virgin Mary or Christmas. Christmas carols often were usually strophic in nature often with a recurring refrain between verses. Similar songs existed in other cultures- noel in France and Weinachtslied in Germany- although today all of these Christmas songs are referred to as carols.
Term
Chanson -
Definition
A French term in use since the middle ages describing a wide range of poetry and song. The troubadour (traveling minstrel) cultivated and developed the chanson. It later took a polyphonic form which naturally influenced and was itself influenced by the Italian madrigal. See also lied and madrigal.
Term
Chantey -
Definition
A song sung by sailors in rhythm with their work.
Term
Chorale -
Definition
A congregational song or hymn originally created in the German Protestant church. It was a very popular source for compositions, especially during the Baroque Period with composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach.
Term
Chord -
Definition
three or more pitches sounding at the time or in succession as in a broken chord. See also interval.
Term
Chorus -
Definition
1. A group of singers of secular music. 2. The refrain of a song.
Term
Chromatic -
Definition
Moving up or down by half steps, often outside of the key. Also the name of the scale composed entirely of half steps( all 12 pitches within an octave). The chromatic scale is distinct from the diatonic scale.
Term
Church Modes -
Definition
see modes
Term
Classical Period -
Definition
1750-1835. The period in western music history beginning in Italy in 1750 and continuing until about 1825. Music of the classical period emphasized balance of phrase and structure. Ludwig Von Beethoven , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Joseph Haydn were famous composers from the classical period.
Term
Clef -
Definition
The symbol at the beginning of the staff that identifies a set of pitches. See also bass clef and treble clef.
Term
Coda -
Definition
Ending. A concluding portion of a composition.
Term
Combo
Definition
In jazz and popular music, a small ensemble.
Term
Common Chord Modulation -
Definition
A type of modulation in which the change of key is accomplished through a chord which is common to both the old and new keys. Common chord modulations are used between closely related keys. See also modulation and common tone modulation.
Term
Common Time -
Definition
Another name fro the meter 4/4. See also cut time.
Term
Common Tone Modulation -
Definition
A type of modulation in which the change of key is accompanied through a tone which is common to both the old and new keys. Common tone modulations are used between keys that area not closely related. See also modulation and common chord modulation.
Term
Commosso
Definition
Moved, excited.
Term
Composer -
Definition
The writer or creator of a song or musical composition. See also arranger.
Term
Compound Interval
Definition
An interval that exceeds an octave.
Term
Compound Meter -
Definition
Meters which have a multiple of 3 such as 6 or 9 ( but not 3 itself) . Compound Meter reflects the note that receives the division unlike simple meter. An exception to the compound meter rule is when the music occurs at a slow tempo, then the music is felt in beats rather than divisions. See also meter and time signature.
Term
Con -
Definition
W ith.
Term
con Grandessa
Definition
with grandeur
Term
Concertato -
Definition
A forerunner of the concerto. It contrasted a small group of singers with the full chorus. Concertati of the early 17th century often combined and contrasted vocal and instrumental forces.
Term
Conductor
Definition
A person who, principally by means of gestures of the hands and arms, leads the performance of a musical ensemble.
Term
Consonance -
Definition
A consonant interval is any interval contained in a major (or minor) triad and its inversions (octave, perfect fifth, perfect fourth, third, sixth).
Term
Contralto
Definition
The lowest female voice.
Term
Counterpoint -
Definition
The combination of two or more melodic lines. Counterpoint is the core element of polyphony.
Term
Crescendo -
Definition
Gradually growing louder. The opposite of decrescendo.
Term
Crotchet
Definition
In British terminology, the quarter note.
Term
Cued Notes -
Definition
Smaller notes indicating either optional harmony or notes from another voice part.
Term
Cut Time -
Definition
2/2 time, the half note gets the beat.
Term
D.C. al fine -
Definition
Repeat from the beginning to fine or end. See also da capo and al fine.
Term
D.S. Al Fine -
Definition
Repeat from the sign to fine or ending.
Term
Da Capo -
Definition
Repeat from the beginning. See also dal segno and al fine.
Term
Dal Segno -
Definition
Go back to the sign and repeat.
Term
Dauer
Definition
Duration, lasting.
Term
Debole
Definition
W eak
Term
Decibel
Definition
A unit of measurement of the difference in intensity of two sounds.
Term
Decrescendo -
Definition
Gradually growing softer. The opposite of crescendo. See also diminuendo.
Term
Delicato
Definition
Delicate
Term
Descant -
Definition
A high ornamental voice part often lying above the melody.
Term
Di molto
Definition
Very; allegrodimolto,veryfast
Term
Diatonic -
Definition
Step by step movement within a regular scale( any key). A combination of the seven whole and half steps (of different pitch names) within a key. Distinct from chromatic.
Term
Diminished Triad -
Definition
A 3-note chord constructed with a minor third followed by another minor third.
Term
Diminuendo -
Definition
Gradually growing softer. See also decrescendo.
Term
Diphthong -
Definition
A combination of two vowel sounds consisting of a primary vowel sound and a secondary vowel sound. The secondary vowel sound is ( usually) at the very end of the diphthong. ( ex. The word "l" is really a diphthong using n "ee" and an "ah". The "ee" is a very brief sound at the end of the word.)
Term
Dirge
Definition
A mournful song or hymn, usually slow and often with a repetitive quality, to accompany burial or memorial rites.
Term
Dissonance -
Definition
A dissonant interval is any interval that is not contained in a major ( or minor) triad like a second , seventh, diminished fifth, etc. A dissonant chord is one that contains at least one dissonant interval.
Term
Divisi -
Definition
Divide; the parts divided.
Term
Dobro
Definition
A guitar with a large, circular, metal resonator under the bridge. It has been manufactured in the U.S. since the 1920's and is used in Hawaiian and in country and western music.
Term
Dolce -
Definition
Sweetly; usually soft as well.
Term
Doloroso
Definition
Painful, sorrowful.
Term
Dominant Chord -
Definition
The name of the triad built on the fifth degree of the major scale. Dominant is also a category of harmony that evokes a feeling of momentum.
Term
Doo wop
Definition
A form of rhythm and blues that flourished commercially in the late 1940's and 1950's. The ensemble most often featured a solo singer backed by a vocal trio or quartet and an instrumental unit.
Term
Dotted Barline -
Definition
A "helper" barline to the songs with unusual time signatures such as 5/8 and 7/8. The dotted barline helps divide the measure into two or more divisions of triple or duple beat groups.
Term
Downbeat -
Definition
The accented first beat of the measure.
Term
Drone
Definition
Any instrument that plays only a constant pitch or pitches. For example, a bagpipe sounds a single pitch in addition to the melody played on the finger holes.
Term
Drone/Bourdon -
Definition
1. any instrument that plays only a constant pitch or pitches. 2. A long, sustained tone in a piece of music , often intended to imitate the sound of a drone.
Term
Dumbalak
Definition
A goblet shaped drum of the Middle East.
Term
Duple -
Definition
Any time signature or group of beats that is a multiple of 2.
Term
Duramente
Definition
Harshly
Term
Dynamic -
Definition
the loudness or softness of a line of music. Dynamic changes may occur frequently within a composition.
Term
Ear Training
Definition
Training intended to improve musical perception, including the ability to recognize by ear alone and reproduce in musical notation melodies, intervals, harmonies, rhythms, and meters and the ability to sing at sight.
Term
Eclatant
Definition
Brilliant, dazzling.
Term
Elegy
Definition
A sorrowful or melancholy musical work whether a setting of such a poem or an instrumental work.
Term
Empresse
Definition
eager, hastening.
Term
Emu
Definition
with emotion, moved.
Term
Encore
Definition
When said by members of the audience; a request that the performers repeat a compostition of perform and additional song not on the program.
Term
Endings -
Definition
( First and second endings). Alternate endings to a repeated section.
Term
Enharmonic -
Definition
Identical tones which are named and written differently. For instance, F# and Gb are the same note, they are enharmonic with each other.
Term
Ensemble -
Definition
A group of musicians( instrumentalists, singers, or some combination) who perform together.
Term
Estinto
Definition
Barely audible.
Term
Esuberante -
Definition
Exuberant, high-spirited, or lively.
Term
Etude
Definition
A composition designed to improve the technique of an instrumental performer by isolating specific difficulties.
Term
Expression marks
Definition
Symbols and words or phrases and their abbreviations employed along with musical notations to guide the performance of a work in matters other than pitches and rhythms.
Term
Expressivo -
Definition
Expressive.
Term
Fake book
Definition
A collection of popular and jazz melodies with chord symbols and sometimes words, used especially by musicians in restaurants, nightclubs as a basis from which to improvise or "fake" their own arrangements. Such books are often reproduced in violation of copyright laws.
Term
Fandango
Definition
A dance and dance-song of Spain in a moderately fast triple meter, appearing first in the early 18th century.
Term
Fermata -
Definition
Hold the indicated note ( or rest) fro longer than its value; the length is left up to the interpreter of the director or the performer.
Term
Feuer
Definition
Fire, passionate.
Term
Field Holler
Definition
Solo singing by blacks in the fields of the southern U.S. Observers in the 19th century describe the use of free rhythmic patterns and falsetto cries Likely the forerunners of country blues.
Term
Fiero
Definition
proud, high spirited, fierce.
Term
Fine -
Definition
Ending. From the Latin word "finis" meaning to finish.
Term
Flat -
Definition
an accidental that lowers the pitch of a note one half step. Flat also refers to faulty intonation when the notes are sung or played slightly under the correct pitch.
Term
Folk Rock
Definition
A combination of folk music with the amplified instrumentation of rock, usually including drums and electric stringed instruments.
Term
Folk Song -
Definition
Songs passed down through oral tradition. Traditional music that reflects a locale or a national feeling.
Term
Form -
Definition
The design and structure of a composition or section of a composition.
Term
Forte -
Definition
Loud.
Term
Fortissimo -
Definition
Very loud.
Term
Freely -
Definition
A style marking permitting liberties with tempo, dynamics, and style. Rubato may also be incorporated.
Term
Frei
Definition
Free, Freely
Term
Gathering note
Definition
The pitch sounded by the organist to give the congregation the pitch for the singing of a hymn.
Term
gedehnt
Definition
Slow
Term
Gelassen
Definition
Calm,tranquil
Term
Gemischte Stimmen
Definition
mixed voices
Term
Genau
Definition
Precise, strict
Term
Giocoso -
Definition
Humorous.
Term
Gioioso
Definition
Joyous, merry
Term
Glee
Definition
An English composition for 3 or more voices, usually unaccompanied and male.
Term
Gospel Music -
Definition
1. Anglo-American protestant evangelical hymns usually with simple, strophic melodies set homophonically to strong tonal progressions. 2. Black American Protestants sacred singing where the vocalists improvise simple melodies by singing in full and /or falsetto voice, by adding melismas and syncopation, by adding blue notes, by freely extending or repeating any fragment of the text.
Term
Grace note
Definition
A note printed in small type to indicate that its time value is not counted in rhythm of the measure.
Term
Gracieux
Definition
Graceful
Term
Gracile
Definition
Delicate
Term
Gradito
Definition
Pleasing
Term
Grand Piano
Definition
A large, wing-shaped piano, in which the plane of the strings is horizontal.
Term
Grand Staff -
Definition
A grouping of two staves.
Term
Grazioso -
Definition
Graceful or delicate.
Term
Gregorian Chant -
Definition
Plainsongs or chants of the Roman Catholic Church. Origins traditionally are ascribed to the period of Pope Gregory I (590-604 A.D.).
Term
Gross
Definition
great, large
Term
Ground Bass
Definition
A pattern of notes, most often a single melodic phrase set in the bass, that is repeated over and over again during the course of a vocal or instrumental composition.
Term
Growl
Definition
In jazz, a harsh tone on a wind instrument imitating the sound of an animal's growl.
Term
Guidonian Hand
Definition
A diagram of the human hand with the notes and solfege syllables assigned to joints or fingertips. Began in the 12th century.
Term
Hackbrett
Definition
[Ger.] Dulcimer
Term
Half Step -
Definition
The smallest distance ( or interval ) between two notes on the keyboard. Shown symbolically (V). The chromatic scale is composed entirely of half steps.
Term
Half Time -
Definition
See cut time.
Term
Hardi
Definition
Bold, rash
Term
Harmonic Interval -
Definition
Intervals played simultaneously.
Term
Harmonic Minor -
Definition
The minor scale in which the seventh degree of the scale is raised a half step to create a strong harmonic push toward the tonic. The awkward interval of 3 half steps between the 6th and the 7th scale tones makes the scale patterns difficult to sing.
Term
Harmony -
Definition
Two or more musical tones sounding simultaneously.
Term
Hauptstimme
Definition
[Ger.] the principal or leading part, often the soprano.
Term
Head Voice -
Definition
The upper register of the voice.
Term
Heftig
Definition
Violent, inpetuous, passionate.
Term
Heiter
Definition
serene, merry, cheerful
Term
Heldentenor
Definition
A tenor voice of considerable brilliance, power, and endurance, suitable for singing roles in Wagner's operas.
Term
Hemiola -
Definition
A unique rhythmical device in which the beat of a triple meter has the feeling of a duple meter(or the reverse) regardless of barlines and time signatures. This is accomplished through ties and/or accent placement.
Term
Heptachord
Definition
A collection of seven pitches, especially the diatonic scale.
Term
Herzlich
Definition
heartfelt, affectionate.
Term
Hinsterbend
Definition
Dying away.
Term
Homophonic -
Definition
See homophony.
Term
Homophony -
Definition
Music in which melodic interest is concentrated in one voice part and may have subordinate accompaniment ( distinct from polyphony in which all of the voice parts are equal). Homophony is also music which consists of two or more voice parts with similar or identical rhythems. From the Greek words meaning " same sounds", homophony could be described as being "hymn- style."
Term
Hushed -
Definition
A style marking indicating soft, whispered tone.
Term
Imitation -
Definition
the successive statement of a melody, theme, or motive by two or more parts.
Term
Immer
Definition
Always, continually.
Term
Incidental music
Definition
Music to be used in connection with a play. It may consist of instrumental music played before an act or between acts.
Term
Innig
Definition
Heartfelt, sincere, fervent
Term
Interlude
Definition
Music played between sections of a composition or dramatic work.
Term
Interval -
Definition
The distance between two pitches.
Term
Intonation -
Definition
Accuracy of pitch.
Term
Intrada
Definition
A piece that accompanies the entrance of a character on the stage or of an important person @ an event.
Term
Jug band
Definition
A small folk ensemble of the US that includes various homemade instruments (washboards, washtub, & jug) along with a few conventional pitched instruments, particularly guitar and harmonica.
Term
Kazoo
Definition
A voice-operated mirliton of the U.S. and Europe. A membrane is attached over a hole in the side of a short wooden or metal tube and vibrates with a buzzing effect when the player sings or hums into the tube.
Term
Key -
Definition
the organization of tonality around a single pitch( key-note). See also key- note and key signature.
Term
Key Signature -
Definition
The group of sharps or flats at the beginning of a staff which combine to indicate the locations of the key-note and configuration of the scale. If there are no sharps or flats, the key is automatically C major or A minor.
Term
Key-note -
Definition
The pitch which is the tonal center of a key. The first tone (note) of a scale. It is also called the tonic. A key is named after the key-note; fro example in the key of Ab, Ab is the key-note. See also key and key signature.
Term
Kraftig
Definition
Strong, energetic
Term
Lacrimoso
Definition
Tearful, mournful.
Term
Laisser
Definition
To allow
Term
Lamentabile
Definition
Sadly
Term
Lamento
Definition
A song of mourning or great sadness and an emportant element in Italian Opera of the 17th century.
Term
Langsam -
Definition
Slow.
Term
Largetto -
Definition
Slightly slower than largo.
Term
Lauda
Definition
A nonlitrugical religious song.
Term
Leading Tone Chord -
Definition
The tone and chord (triad built on the 7th degree) in the major scale which has the strongest (and shortest) progression toward the tonic.
Term
Ledger Lines -
Definition
The short lines used to extend the lines and spaces of our staff.
Term
Legato -
Definition
Smooth and connected. Opposite of staccato.
Term
Leggiero -
Definition
Light articulation; sometimes non- legato.
Term
Leicht
Definition
light, nimble
Term
Lento -
Definition
Slow.
Term
Letra
Definition
The words of a song or other vocal work.
Term
Libero
Definition
Freely
Term
Lieto
Definition
Joyful, merry
Term
Lievemente
Definition
Joyful, merry
Term
Lift -
Definition
An indication within a musical line for a brief stop in motion or momentum. Lifts are used between phrases or to set off important notes or words.
Term
Liscio
Definition
Smooth, even.
Term
L'istesso -
Definition
The same.
Term
Loco -
Definition
Place. Return to normal place ( usually after playing one or more octaves above or below the written pitch.)
Term
Longa
Definition
Long
Term
Lontano
Definition
Distant
Term
Lugubre -
Definition
Mournful.
Term
Lugubre -
Definition
Mournful.
Term
Lungo, Lunga -
Definition
Long.
Term
Lustig
Definition
Merry, joyous.
Term
Ma -
Definition
But.( Ex. Ma non trappo, but not too much.)
Term
Macaronic Text -
Definition
Text in which two languages are used( usually Latin and one other language.)
Term
Madrigal -
Definition
A kind of 16th century Italian composition based on secular poetry. Madrigals were popular into the 17th century.
Term
Maestoso -
Definition
majestic
Term
Maitrise
Definition
A choir school attached to a church; church choir
Term
Major key/scale/mode -
Definition
A specific arrangement of whole steps and half steps.
Term
Mancando
Definition
Fading, dying away.
Term
Marcato -
Definition
Marked or stressed; march-like.
Term
Mariachi -
Definition
A traditional ensemble of Mexico, usually containing one or more trumpets and violins, guitars, and the five-string vihuela.
Term
Mass -
Definition
The central religious service of the Roman Catholic Church . It consists of several sections divided into groups: Proper of the mass ( text changes for every day) and ordinary of the mass (text stays the same in every mass). Between the years of 1400 and 1600 the mass assumed its present form consisting of the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Santus, and Agnus Dei. It may include chants, hymns, and psalms as well. The mass also developed into large musical works fro chorus, soloists, and even orchestra.
Term
Measure -
Definition
a group of beats divided by barlines. Measures are sometimes called bars. The first beat of each measure is usually accented.
Term
Mediant Chord -
Definition
the name of the triad built on the third degree of the major scale- midway between the tonic and the dominant chords.
Term
Melisma -
Definition
long groups of notes sung on one syllable of text.
Term
Melodic Interval -
Definition
notes that comprise an intervsl played in succession.
Term
Melodic Minor -
Definition
the minor scale in which the 6th and 7th degrees of the scale are raised a half step when ascended adsn lowered to their original natural minor positions when decending.
Term
Melody -
Definition
A succession of musical tones; also the predominant line in a song.
Term
Melopoeia
Definition
The art of invention of melody.
Term
Meno Mosso -
Definition
From the Italian meno(less) and mosso(moved). Meno Mosso means less motion or slower.
Term
Messa di voce
Definition
In singing, a gradual crescendo and decrescendo on a sustained note.
Term
Meter -
Definition
A form of rhythmic organization (grouping of the beats). The kind of meter designated by the time signature. See also simple and compound meters.
Term
Meter Signature -
Definition
See also time signature.
Term
Metronome Marking -
Definition
a marking which appears over the top of the staff of music which indicates the kind of note which will get the beat, and the number of beats per minute as measured by a metronome. It reveals the tempo.
Term
Mezzo Forte -
Definition
mf ; medium loud.
Term
Mezzo Piano -
Definition
mp ; medium soft.
Term
Middle C -
Definition
the c which is located closest to the middle of the piano keyboard. Middle C can be written in either the treble or bass clef.
Term
Minor key/ scale/mode -
Definition
a specific arrangement of whole steps and half steps .
Term
Mirliton
Definition
A vibrating membrane that modifies a sound produced in some other way, adding a nasal or buzzing quality.
Term
Mixed Meter -
Definition
frequently changing meters or time signatures within a piece of music.
Term
Mixolydian -
Definition
A medieval mode starting on the 5th degree of the diatonic scale.
Term
Modal -
Definition
Characterized by the use of modes, especially the church modes of the middle ages and the Renaissance.
Term
Mode -
Definition
An earlier system of pitch organization often referred to as church modes. These were different arrangements of whole and half steps within an octave and were used in early music, including the chant. The commonly used modes in early music are: Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeollian.
Term
Moderato -
Definition
moderate tempo.
Term
Modulation -
Definition
changing the keys within a song. Adjust to the key signature , the key-note and proceed.
Term
Moll
Definition
Minor
Term
Molto -
Definition
Much , very.
Term
Monophonic -
Definition
see monophony.
Term
Monophony -
Definition
Music which consists of a single melody. This earliest form of composition is from the Greek words meaning "one sound" . Chant or plainsong is monophony.
Term
Morendo -
Definition
fading away.
Term
Mormorando
Definition
murmuring, whispering
Term
Mosso -
Definition
rapis; moved; agitated.
Term
Motet -
Definition
A major type of musical composition from the 1200's into the 1700's. The motet went through many different forms and developments beginning with the simpler medieval motet and progressing to the more intricate Renaissance motet which is generally considered a polyphonic setting of sacred Latin text.
Term
Moto
Definition
motion
Term
Movable do
Definition
a system in which do (scale step #1) is the 1st step of the major scale regardless of it's key.
Term
Music therapy
Definition
The clinical use of music in the treatment especially, though no exclusively,of mental illness or disability.
Term
Muta
Definition
Change (i.e. - timpani part, mut in G/d means the tuning of the timpani should be changed to G and d)
Term
Mysterioso -
Definition
A style marking indicating a mysterious or haunting mood.
Term
Natural -
Definition
cancels a previous sharp or flat. When it cancels a flat the pitch is raised one half step and when it cancels a sharp the pitch is lowered one half step.
Term
Natural Minor -
Definition
see minor key/scale/mode.
Term
Niente -
Definition
Italian word meaning nothing. In music niente usually follows an extreme diminuendo to indicate a fading to nothingness.
Term
No Breath -
Definition
an indication by either the composer/arranger or the editor of where not to breathe in a line of music. See also phrase marking.
Term
Non -
Definition
not.
Term
Notation -
Definition
all written notes and symbols which are used to represent music.
Term
Octave -
Definition
the interval between two notes of the same name. Octaves can be indicated within a score using 8va (octave above) and 8vb( octave below).
Term
Offertory
Definition
in Gregorian chant, the item of the Proper of the Mass sung during the presentation of the offering.
Term
Ohne
Definition
W ithout.
Term
Optional Divisi -
Definition
the part splits into optional harmony. The smaller sized cued notes indicate the optional notes to be used.
Term
Opus
Definition
The term is most often used with a number to designate a work in its chronological relationship to a composer's other works.
Term
Oratorio -
Definition
A longer choral composition of religious or contemplative nature usually performed in a concert hall or church by solo voices, chorus, and orchestra. An oratorio is longer and has more narrative libretto than a sacred cantata.
Term
Ordinary
Definition
Items of the Mass whose text remain the same throughout the liturgical year.
Term
Ossia
Definition
or; used to indicate an alternative (often easier) version of a passage.
Term
Ossia
Definition
Or; otherwise. A directive to perform a certain passage of a composition in an alternate way.
Term
Ostinato -
Definition
a repeated pattern used as a harmonic basis.
Term
Ottava bassa
Definition
(Abbreviated 8va bassa) an octave lower than notated.
Term
Paean
Definition
a song of joyful praise or exulatation.
Term
Pantomime
Definition
The protrayal of emotions and actions of the narration of an event by means of gesture and body movements. The technique of pantomime may be incorporated into opera or ballet.
Term
Part song
Definition
An unaccompanied secular choral work of relatively modest length.
Term
Pasacalle
Definition
Literally; music for walking in the streets.
Term
Pastorale -
Definition
subject matter pertaining to nature(outdoor) scenes.\
Term
Patetico
Definition
Pathetic; with great emotion.
Term
Pauroso
Definition
Fearful; timid.
Term
Pianissimo -
Definition
very soft.
Term
Pianississimo -
Definition
very, very soft. The softest common dynamic marking.
Term
Piano -
Definition
soft.
Term
Pick-up -
Definition
an incomplete measure at the beginning of a song or phrase.
Term
Pitch -
Definition
the highness or lowness of musical sounds.
Term
Piu -
Definition
More.
Term
Plainsong -
Definition
an ancient liturgical chant- a single melody line with free rhythm sung acappella.
Term
Poco -
Definition
little.
Term
Poco a poco -
Definition
little by little.
Term
Polyphony -
Definition
Music which consists of two or more independent melodies which combine to create simultaneous voice parts with different rhythms . Polyphony often involves contrasting dynamics and imitation from part to part. From the Greek words meaning many sounds, polyphony is sometimes called counterpoint.
Term
Polyrhythm -
Definition
Contrasting rhythms played simultaneously .
Term
Portamento -
Definition
an effect used in singing of sliding continually between any two pitches wherein all pitches in between the starting and target pitch are briefly heard.
Term
Prestissimo -
Definition
Faster than presto. As fast as possible.
Term
Presto -
Definition
very fast.
Term
Quasi -
Definition
seemingly, or in a sense or manner.
Term
Relative major/minor -
Definition
Major and minor tonalities that share the same key signature.
Term
Renaissance Period -
Definition
1450-1600. Period in the western world following the middle ages. Renaissance means "rebirth" and was a celebration of entrance into the modern age of thought and invention. Had advanced music in notation and compositional ideas. Polyphony developed and the madrigal became popular. Orlando di Lasso, Giovvanni da Palestrina, Thomas Luis de Victoria, and Josquin Des Prez were some of the more famous Renaissance composers.
Term
Repeat Sign -
Definition
Repeat the section. If the repeat sign is omitted , go back to the beginning. Also see endings.
Term
Resolution -
Definition
A progression from a dissonant tone or harmony to a constant harmony. ( usually approached by step). Also see suspension.
Term
Responsory -
Definition
A type of liturgical chant common to the Gregorian and other western chants.
Term
Rhythm -
Definition
The organization of non- pitched sounds in time. Rhythm encompasses note and rest duration as well as meters, tempos, and their relationships.
Term
Ritardando -
Definition
Gradually slower. See also rallentando.
Term
Ritenuto -
Definition
Slowed down. Usually more abrupt than rallentando or ritardando.
Term
Ritmico -
Definition
rhythmic.
Term
Romantic Period -
Definition
1825-1900. Period in the 19th century Western art, literature, and music that lasted into the early 20th century. In music , as well as in other areas, Romanticism focused on the emotion of art. Works from this period emphasized the emotional effect music has on the listener through dynamic contrasts and different ways of changing the "mood". Opera flourished as well as chamber music. Some famous composers are Franz Schubert, Fredrick Chopin, Hector Berlioz, and Richard Wagner.
Term
Root Tone -
Definition
The lowest note of a triad in its original position; the note on which the chord is built and named
Term
Round -
Definition
see canon.
Term
Rubato -
Definition
The tempo is free, left up to the director or performer.
Term
Scale -
Definition
An inventory or collection of pitches. The word "scale" ( from the Italian scala) means ladder. Thus, many musical scales are a succession of pitches higher and lower.
Term
Score -
Definition
The arrangement of a group of vocal and instrumental staffs which all sound at the same time.
Term
Sempre -
Definition
Always, continually.
Term
Senza -
Definition
W ithout.
Term
Sequence -
Definition
The successive repetition of a short melodic idea at different pitch levels.
Term
Sforzando, Sforzato -
Definition
a strong accent on the note.
Term
Sfp -
Definition
Abbr. for sforzando followed by piano, i.e., a sudden loud accent followed immediately by a soft continuation.
Term
Sharp - .
Definition
An accidental that raises the pitch of a note one half step. Also, faulty intonation in which the note is sung slightly above the correct pitch
Term
Sign -
Definition
A symbol that marks the place in music where the musician is to skip back to from the dal segno.
Term
Simile -
Definition
Continue the same way.
Term
Simple Meter -
Definition
Meters which are based upon the note which receives the beat.
Term
Skip -
Definition
The melodic movement of one note to the other in intervals larger than a step.
Term
Slide -
Definition
To approach a note from the underneath the designated pitch and "slide" up to the correct pitch. Slides often appear in jazz, pop tunes, and spirituals.
Term
Slur -
Definition
A curved line placed above or below a group of notes to indicate that they are to be sung on the same text syllable. Slurs are also used in instrumental music to indicate that the group of notes should be performed legato.
Term
Smear -
Definition
A slide into a note from below. Used often in pop or jazz styles of music. See slide.
Term
Solfege -
Definition
The study of sight-singing using pitch syllables.
Term
Soli -
Definition
A section that performs alone or as a predominant part.
Term
Solo -
Definition
Alone. To perform alone or as a predominant part.
Term
Song Cycle -
Definition
A group of songs, usually fro solo voice and piano, constituting a literary and musical unit. Often the poems of a song cycle are by the same poet.
Term
Soprano -
Definition
The highest treble voice, usually written in the treble clef.
Term
Sostenuto -
Definition
Sustained. Often implying a slowing of tempo.
Term
Sotto Voce -
Definition
Sotto means under or below. Voce means voice or part . Together sotto voce means to sing to play in a subdued manner.
Term
Spirito -
Definition
Spirit.
Term
Spiritoso -
Definition
Spirited.
Term
Spiritual -
Definition
Religious folk song of African American origin associated with work, recreation, or religious gatherings. They developed prior to the Civil War and are still influential today. They have a strong rhythmic character and are often structured in call and response.
Term
Spoken -
Definition
Reciting text with the speaking voice rather than singing the designated line. Often indicated with instead of notes.
Term
Staccato -
Definition
Short, separated notes. Opposite of legato.
Term
Staff -
Definition
The five horizontal parallel lines and four spaces between them on which notes are placed to show pitch. The staff can be extended by using ledger lines. The lines and spaces are numbered from the bottom up.
Term
Staggered Breathing -
Definition
In ensemble singing, planning the breaths so that no two singers take a breath at the same time, thus creating the overall effect of continuous singing.
Term
Step -
Definition
Melodic movement from one note to the next higher or lower scale degree.
Term
Strophe -
Definition
A strophe is a verse or stanza in a song. If a song has many verses it is said to be strophic.
Term
Strophic -
Definition
A song in which all verses are sung to the same music.
Term
Style Marking -
Definition
An indicator at the beginning of a song or section of a song which tells the musician , in general , what style the music should be performed.
Term
Subdominant Chord -
Definition
The name of the triad built on the fourth degree of the major scale. Subdominant is also a category of harmony that evokes a feeling of degression or diversion away from the tonic.
Term
Subito -
Definition
Suddenly
Term
Submediant Chord -
Definition
The name of the triad built on the sixth degree of the major scale- below the tonic , midway between it and the dominant.
Term
Supertonic chord -
Definition
The name of the triad built on the second degree of the major scale- Immediately above the tonic chord.
Term
Suspension -
Definition
The sustaining or "suspending" of the pitch from a consonant chord into a dissonant chord often using a tie. The resulting dissonant chord then resolves to a consonant chord. The musical effect is one of tension and release. See also resolution.
Term
Swing -
Definition
A change in interpretation of 8th note durations in some music(often jazz and the blues). Groups of two eighth notes are no longer sung evenly, instead they are performed like part of a triplet . The 8th notes still appear . A swing style is usually indicated at the beginning of a song or section.
Term
Syllables -
Definition
Names given to pitch units or rhythm units to aid in sight-reading.
Term
Syncopation -
Definition
The use of accents and ties to create rhythmic interest. The result is a rhythmic pattern which stresses notes on the off beat. This technique is commonly found in spirituals and jazz.
Term
Tactus -
Definition
The 15th and 16th century term for musical beat. Prior to the use of time signatures, music was organized by the overall feeling of beat (tactus). Originally marked by the rising and the falling motion of the hand or stomping of foot, the tactus maintained order within an ensemble of singers or players.
Term
Tempo -
Definition
The speed of the beat.
Term
Tempo I -
Definition
Return to the first tempo. Also called tempo primo.
Term
Tempo Marking -
Definition
The speed at which music is performed. For example, (the quaternote =80)indicates that the speed of the music is to be 80 beats per minute.
Term
Tempo Primo -
Definition
Return to the first ( primo) tempo. See Tempo I.
Term
Tenor -
Definition
A male voice that is written in bass or treble clef. It is lower thwn the alto, but higher than the bass.
Term
Tenuto -
Definition
A slight stress on the indicated note. The mote is held for its full value.
Term
Terraced Dynamics -
Definition
A technique commonly found in Baroque Music in which dynamic changes are made suddenly .
Term
Text Painting -
Definition
The musical illustration of the meaning of words in vocal music, especially the literal meaning of individual words or phrases. For example, to create an image of a lonesome prairie , the composer may use a legato musical line , word inflection and long phrases to paint a picture for the listener.
Term
Texture -
Definition
The interrelationship or the voices and/or instruments within a piece of music. Monophonic, homophonic, and polyphonic are all types of textures.
Term
Tie -
Definition
A line connecting two or more notes of the same pitch so that their durations are their combined sum. Ties often occur over barlines.
Term
Time Signature -
Definition
indication that tells what note gets the beat. Indicate the meter. May also tell if the selection is cut time or common time.
Term
To Coda -
Definition
go to the circle with a cross through it.
Term
Tonality -
Definition
The organization of pitches in a song in which a certain pitch (tone) is designated as the key-note which is the tonal center of the key.
Term
Tone -
Definition
A musical sound of definite pitch and quality.
Term
Tonic -
Definition
The key- note of the key or scale.
Term
Tonic Chord -
Definition
The name of the triad built on the 1st degree of the major scale. Tonic is also a category of harmony that evokes a feeling of home or rest.
Term
Tranquillo -
Definition
Calm.
Term
Transpose -
Definition
To rewrite or perform a song in a key other than the original.
Term
Trattenuto -
Definition
Held back. See Also ritardando.
Term
Treble Clef -
Definition
The symbol at the beginning of the staff used for higher voices and instruments , and the piano right hand. It generally refers to pitches higher than a middle C. The curve is wrapped around the G, as a result it is also called the G clef.
Term
Triad -
Definition
A special type of 3-note chord built in 3rd over a root tone.
Term
Trill -
Definition
Rapid alteration (within a key) between the marked note and the one above it.
Term
Triple -
Definition
any time signature or group of beats that is a multiple of 3.
Term
Triplet -
Definition
A borrowed division of the beat where three notes of equal duration are to be sung in the same time normally occupied by two notes of equal duration. Usually indicated with a 3.
Term
Troppo -
Definition
Too Much.
Term
Tutti -
Definition
From the Italian word" all". Tutti is an indicator following a solo or small ensemble that the entire section should all sing.
Term
Unison -
Definition
All parts singing the same notes at the same time(or singing in octaves).
Term
Villancico -
Definition
A composition of Spanish origin from the 15th century and the 16th century. Similar to the madrigal, this type of work is based on secular poetry and is structured around the verses and refrains of its text.
Term
Villanella -
Definition
A form of choral music popular in Italy from 1530 to the end of the 16th century.
Term
Vivace -
Definition
Very fast.
Term
Whole Step -
Definition
the combination of two successive half steps.
Term
Allegro
Definition
Fast
Term
Allegretto
Definition
Moderately Fast
Term
Dolce
Definition
Sweetly
Term
Cantabile
Definition
In a singing style
Term
Adagio
Definition
Slow
Term
Lento
Definition
Slow
Term
Accelerando
Definition
Gradually getting faster
Term
Diminuendo
Definition
Gradually becoming quieter
Term
Crescendo
Definition
Gradually getting louder
Term
Stacatto
Definition
Detached, short
Term
A
Definition
at, to, by, for, in the style of
Term
Aber
Definition
but
Term
Accelerando
Definition
gradually getting faster
Term
Adagietto
Definition
rather slow
Term
Adagio
Definition
slow, leisurly
Term
Adagissimo
Definition
very slow
Term
Affetuoso
Definition
tenderly
Term
Affrettando
Definition
hurrying
Term
Agitato
Definition
agitated
Term
Alla
Definition
in the style of
Term
Alla marcia
Definition
in the style of a march
Term
Alla polacca
Definition
in the style of a Polonaise
Term
Allargando
Definition
broadening out
Term
Allegretto
Definition
slightly slower than allegro
Term
Allegro
Definition
lively, reasonably fast
Term
Allegro assai
Definition
very quick
Term
Amabile
Definition
amaible, pleasant
Term
Andante
Definition
at a walking pace
Term
Andantino
Definition
a little slower/faster than andante
Term
Animato
Definition
lively, animated
Term
Anime
Definition
animated, lively
Term
Appassionata
Definition
with passion
Term
Assai
Definition
very
Term
Assez
Definition
enough, sufficiently
Term
Atacca
Definition
go on immediately
Term
A tempo
Definition
resume the normal speed
Term
Ausdruck
Definition
expression
Term
Avec
Definition
with
Term
Bewegt
Definition
with movement, agitated
Term
Bravura
Definition
with boldness and spirit
Term
Breit
Definition
broad, expansive
Term
Brillante
Definition
sparkling, brilliant
Term
Cantando
Definition
in a singing style
Term
Cedez
Definition
yield, relax the speed
Term
Col;Con
Definition
with
Term
Con anima
Definition
with deep feeling, soul
Term
Con brio
Definition
with vigour
Term
Con moto
Definition
with movement
Term
Con spirito
Definition
with spirit, life, energy
Term
Da capo
Definition
from the beginning
Term
Da segno
Definition
repeat from the sign
Term
Deciso
Definition
with determination
Term
Delicato
Definition
delicately
Term
Dolcissimo
Definition
very sweetly
Term
Dolente
Definition
sadly
Term
Dolore
Definition
grief, sorrow
Term
Doppio
Definition
doubble
Term
Doppio movimento
Definition
double the speed
Term
Ein
Definition
a, one
Term
Einfach
Definition
simple
Term
En dehors
Definition
prominent
Term
Energico
Definition
with energy
Term
Espressione
Definition
with expression
Term
Et
Definition
and
Term
Etwas
Definition
somewhat, rather
Term
Facile
Definition
easy
Term
Fine
Definition
the end
Term
Forza
Definition
force, power
Term
Forzando
Definition
with a strong accent
Term
Frohlich
Definition
cheerful, jolly
Term
Fuoco
Definition
fire
Term
Furioso
Definition
furiously
Term
Giocoso
Definition
merry
Term
Giusto
Definition
exact, proper
Term
Grandioso
Definition
in a grang manner
Term
Grave
Definition
very slow
Term
Grazioso
Definition
gracefully
Term
Immer
Definition
always
Term
Lacrimoso
Definition
tearfully
Term
Langsam
Definition
slow
Term
Largamente
Definition
in a broad style
Term
Larghetto
Definition
faster than largo
Term
Largo
Definition
slow and stately
Term
Lebhaft
Definition
lively
Term
Legatissimo
Definition
as smoothly as possible
Term
Legato
Definition
smoothly
Term
Legerement
Definition
lightly
Term
Leggiero
Definition
lightly
Term
Lent
Definition
slow
Term
Lento
Definition
slowly
Term
L'Istesso
Definition
the same
Term
Ma
Definition
but
Term
Ma non troppo
Definition
but not to fast
Term
Maestoso
Definition
majestically
Term
Mais
Definition
but
Term
Marcato
Definition
marked, accented
Term
Martellato
Definition
hammered out
Term
Marziale
Definition
in a military style
Term
Massig
Definition
at a moderate speed
Term
Meno
Definition
less
Term
Meno mosso
Definition
less movement
Term
Mesto
Definition
sadly
Term
Misterioso
Definition
mysteriously
Term
Mit
Definition
with
Term
Moderato
Definition
at a moderate pace
Term
Modere
Definition
at a moderate speed
Term
Moins
Definition
less
Term
Molto
Definition
much
Term
Morendo
Definition
dying away
Term
Mosso
Definition
movement
Term
Moto
Definition
movement
Term
Movimento
Definition
movement
Term
Nicht
Definition
not
Term
Niente
Definition
nothing
Term
Nobilmente
Definition
nobly
Term
Non
Definition
not
Term
Non tanto
Definition
not so much
Term
Non troppo
Definition
not too much
Term
Ohne
Definition
without
Term
Parlando
Definition
in a speaking manner
Term
Parlante
Definition
in a speaking manner
Term
Pastorale
Definition
in a pastoral style
Term
Patetico
Definition
with feeling
Term
Perdendosi
Definition
dying away
Term
Peasante
Definition
heavily
Term
Peu
Definition
little
Term
Piu
Definition
more
Term
Pizzicato
Definition
plucked
Term
Plus
Definition
more
Term
Poco a poco
Definition
little by little
Term
Possible
Definition
possible
Term
Presto possible
Definition
as fast as possible
Term
Presser
Definition
hurry
Term
En pressant
Definition
hurrying on
Term
Prestissimo
Definition
as fast as possible
Term
Presto
Definition
very quick
Term
Quasi
Definition
as if, resembling
Term
Ralentir
Definition
slow down
Term
Retenu
Definition
held back
Term
En retenant
Definition
holding back
Term
Risoluto
Definition
boldly
Term
Ritmico
Definition
rythmically
Term
Ruhig
Definition
peaceful
Term
Sans
Definition
without
Term
Scherzando
Definition
playfully
Term
Scherzo
Definition
a joke
Term
Schnell
Definition
fast
Term
Semplice
Definition
simple
Term
Sempre
Definition
always
Term
Senza
Definition
without
Term
Sforzando
Definition
with a sudden accent
Term
Simile
Definition
in the same way
Term
Slargando
Definition
gradually slower
Term
Slentando
Definition
gradually slower
Term
Smorzando
Definition
dying away
Term
Sonoro
Definition
in a rich tone
Term
Sopra
Definition
above
Term
sospirando
Definition
sighing
Term
Sostenuto
Definition
sustained
Term
Sotto
Definition
below
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