These terms provide a common language for musicians to communicate and interpret ideas. Some terms include tempo like “allegro” (fast), dynamics like “piano” (soft) and “forte” (loud), and expressions like “legato” (smoothly connected).
Origin and Variability
Most terms are Italian, aligning with European conventions. Sometimes meanings differ from Italian or current usages. Other terms come from French and German, marked as Fr. and Ger.
Music Terminology in Practice
A male range between baritone and countertenor is the tenor. The timbre describes the color or sound of music, often characterized as loud, strong, and rich.
In theory, a bar contains beats at a given tempo. Fast music often uses Italian terms to give rough ranges over fixed speeds. Key terms for changing speed include ritardando (gradually slower) and ritenuto (immediately slower). Additionally, detached notes are marked staccato.
As a singer, understanding basic terminology is essential for effective communication with teachers, although interpretations of terms may vary. This reference aims to summarize common terms for clarity.
Remember, music is not only about technical terms but also an emotional expression. Feel the spirit they represent.