Music Terminology Flashcards
What is parallel motion?
Both voices move in the same direction (up or down) and remain the same interval distance apart (e.g., parallel 3rds, parallel 6ths, etc.).
What is similar motion?
Both voices move in the same direction (up or down) but do not remain the same interval apart.
What is oblique motion?
One voice remains on the same pitch while the other voice moves either up or down.
What is contrary motion?
Both voices move in opposite directions (one moves up while the other moves down).
What is fragmentation?
The technique of taking a small part (or fragment) of a musical theme or melody and using it separately.
What is a neighbouring/auxiliary
note/tone?
Is approached by step and then returns by step to the original tone.
What is a pedal note/tone?
A sustained tone, typically in the bass, during which at least one foreign, i.e., dissonant harmony is sounded in the other parts.
If the question asks about timbre…
State the instruments that have been utilised, as well as the name of the type of ensemble if applicable i.e., big band, rock band, choir, orchestra, string quartet.
Mention terms like CLEAR, HARSH, LIGHT, BRIGHT, MUFFLED, DARK, etc.
If the question asks about rhythm/meter…
State the TIME SIGNATURE(S) - use terms like simple/compound - duple/triple/quadruple
Division of pulse i.e., note values,
Augmentation/diminution of rhythm
Mention terms like SYNCOPATION, SWING/STRAIGHT, OSTINATO etc.
If the question asks about harmony…
Give examples of the CHORDS, which might be writing chord symbols, or describing the chords using terms such as triads, 7ths, primary triads, secondary triads, secondary dominants, extended chords, altered dominants etc.
What is binary form?
A-B
What is ternary form?
A-B-A
What is rondo form?
A-B-A-C-A (or other variations), where the A section keeps returning between new, different sections.
If the question asks about texture…
Use terms like HOMOPHONY, POLYPHONY etc.
List the instruments, especially those which are changing in sections or prominent
Thick, thin, open, dense, sparse,
If the question asks about dynamics or expression…
Describe the volume of the piece and how articulation such as accents, staccatos, slurs, fermatas/pauses and rubato are used.
