Glossary of Musical Terms - Definitions of Commonly used Terms, Vocabulary & Terminology in Music. Music Terminology. Music Terminology In cultures across the world and through time, spanning all different age groups, music has always been an intrinsic part of human life.
When discussing music, whether in a casual or in-depth manner, it always helps to be able to speak about it knowledgeably. There are various terms that can convey a more precise meaning about a certain aspect of music, but many of these terms tend to be somewhat technical. Many of the words also tend to be in Italian or French, which adds to the confusion. To get a grasp of music terminology, have a look below at the most important and useful terms to know.
Allegro – An Italian word referring to a quick and lively tempo. Ballad – Typically a folk song, or a piece of music written to imitate such a song. Baritone – A male voice positioned in the middle of the choir’s range. Baroque – Music ranging from the 1600s to around 1750 is generally described as belonging to the baroque era. Crescendo – A gradual increase in volume of the music. Glossary of Musical Terms. The musical pitch relating to 440 oscillations per second of vibration, or any octave transposition of that pitch.
The key of A. absolute music Music without associations outside of itself, in contrast to program music. absolute pitch see perfect pitch. a cappella “In the manner of the chapel.” Accidentals Sharps, flats, or natural signs that raise or lower a given diatonic pitch to deviate from its key signature. accompaniment A vocal or instrumental part that supports or is background for a solo part. achromatic See diatonic. acoustic Any instrument that produces sound by means of physical vibrations, without the use of electronic amplification. acoustics. Glossary of Musical Terms.
Music Glossary: Terminology. Glossary of musical terminology. This is a list of musical terms that are likely to be encountered in printed scores, music reviews, and program notes.
Most of the terms are Italian (see also Italian musical terms used in English), in accordance with the Italian origins of many European musical conventions. Sometimes, the special musical meanings of these phrases differ from the original or current Italian meanings. Most of the other terms are taken from French and German, indicated by "(Fr)" and "(Ger)", respectively. Others are from languages such as Portuguese, Latin, and Spanish. Unless specified, the terms are Italian or English. A[edit] B[edit] C[edit] D[edit] E[edit] F[edit] G[edit] H[edit] I[edit] J[edit] K[edit] keyboardist (Eng) : a musician who plays any instrument with a keyboard.
L[edit] M[edit] N[edit] nach und nach (Ger) lit.