Music Terms definitions Flashcards
Classical Period
A musical era (1750-1820) known for balance, clarity, and structured compositions.
Opera
A theatrical performance combining singing, acting, and orchestral music.
Concerto
A composition for a solo instrument accompanied by an orchestra.
Accidentals
Symbols that modify a note’s pitch (sharp, flat, or natural).
Prodigy
A young person with extraordinary talent in music or other fields.
Symphony
A large-scale orchestral composition, often with four movements.
Andante
A moderately slow tempo, like a walking pace.
Moderato
A medium-speed tempo, moderate in pace.
Allegro
A fast, lively tempo.
Tempo
The speed of the music.
Rhythm
The pattern of sounds and silences in music.
Crescendo
A gradual increase in volume.
Diminuendo
A gradual decrease in volume.
Piano (p)
Play softly.
Forte (f)
Play loudly.
Mezzo Forte (mf)
Play moderately loud.
Mezzo Piano (mp)
Play moderately soft.
Staccato
Play notes short and detached.
Tenuto
Hold a note for its full value.
Slur
A curved line connecting notes to be played smoothly.
Tie
A curved line connecting notes of the same pitch to be played as one.
Tone
The quality or character of a sound.
Harmony
The combination of different notes played together.
Melody
A sequence of notes forming the main tune.
Dynamics
The varying levels of loudness in music.
Pitch
The highness or lowness of a sound.
Timbre
The unique quality or color of a sound.
Accent
Emphasis on a specific note.
Fermata
A symbol indicating a note or rest should be held longer than usual.
Trill
Rapid alternation between two adjacent notes.
