Structure Flashcards
What is the term for a structure which contains two contrasting sections?
Binary - AB
AB structure is characterized by two distinct musical ideas or sections.
What is the term for a structure which contains three sections where the first is repeated?
Ternary - ABA
ABA structure includes a return to the first section after contrasting material.
What is the definition of a structure which consists of an A section which contrasts with various contrasting sections by repeating in between?
Rondo
.
What is the term for a structure which uses Binary form within Ternary form?
Minuet and trio - AB - CD - AB
This structure combines elements of both Binary and Ternary forms.
What does the term ‘Repetition’ refer to in music?
When an idea is repeated
Repetition helps to reinforce musical themes and ideas.
What is ‘Contrast’ in musical terms?
A change in the music which offers a difference in the musical element to provide contrast
Contrast enhances the dynamics and interest in a piece.
What is the definition of ‘Strophic’ structure?
Structure which uses the same music for each verse (no chorus)
Common in folk and popular music, where verses are sung to the same tune.
What is the ‘32 bar song form’?
Composed of four separate 8-bar sections, taking the form AABA
This form is often used in jazz and popular music.
What is the ‘12 bar Blues’ structure?
A repeated chordal pattern (I, I, I, I, IV, IV, I, I, V, IV, I, I)
This structure is foundational in blues music.
What does ‘Call and Response’ mean in music?
Short musical idea followed by an answering phase
This technique is common in African music and jazz.
What is an ‘Ostinato’?
Continuously repeated phrase or idea
Ostinatos create a sense of stability in a piece.
What is the purpose of a ‘Bridge’ in music?
Piece of music that links two other sections together
Bridges often provide contrast and prepare for a return to the main theme.
What is a ‘Break’ in musical terms?
Section that offers a contrast or ‘break’ from the rest of the piece/song
Breaks can create tension and anticipation in a performance.
What is a ‘Loop’ in music?
An idea continuously repeated by technical means
Loops are often used in electronic music to create a repetitive texture.
What does ‘Improvisation’ mean?
Creating a musical composition on the spot, by yourself or while playing with others
Improvisation is a key element in jazz and many other genres.
What is a ‘Verse’ in a song?
Section of a song which has the same music but different lyrics when repeated
Verses typically tell a story or develop the song’s theme.
What is a ‘Chorus’ in a song?
Section of a song which has the same music and lyrics when repeated
Choruses are often the most memorable part of a song.
What is a ‘Middle 8’?
8 bars in the middle of a song which provide a contrast
The Middle 8 can provide a fresh perspective before returning to the main themes.
What is a ‘Fill’ in music?
Idea that fills in the ‘gaps’ at the end of phrases
Fills add interest and lead into new sections.
What is an ‘Introduction’ in music?
Opening of a piece which introduces the main ideas
The introduction sets the tone for the entire piece.
What is an ‘Outro’?
Last part of a piece used in ‘pop’ music
Outros provide closure to the musical work.
What is a ‘Coda’?
Final section of a piece of music
Codas often summarize the themes of the piece.
What is a ‘Riff’?
Catchy idea in ‘pop’ music which is repeated
Riffs are often instrumental and create a hook in the music.
What is ‘Regular Phrasing’?
Melody divided up into balanced, symmetrical phrases
Regular phrasing creates a sense of predictability in music.
