Musical Terms Glossary

Accidental – A note that is not part of the key signature (sharp, flat, natural).
Arco – Played with the bow (for string instruments).
Pizzicato – Plucking the strings with fingers (for string instruments)
Articulation – The way a note is played (e.g., staccato, legato).
Chromatic – Moving by half steps or using notes outside the key signature.
Clef – A symbol at the beginning of the staff indicating pitch (e.g., treble, bass, alto).
Fermata – A pause, holding the note longer than its value.
Measure – A segment of music defined by bar lines.
Double Stop – Playing two notes simultaneously on a string instrument.
Harmonics – High-pitched, bell-like tones produced on string instruments.
Mute – A device to soften or change the tone.
Phrase – A musical sentence or idea.
Motif – A short musical idea or theme.
Ornamentation – Decorative notes like trills, mordents, and grace notes.

Overture – An orchestral introduction to an opera or other work.
Prelude – A short piece serving as an introduction.
Symphony – A large orchestral work, usually in multiple movements.
Sonata – A composition for one instrument, usually with piano accompaniment.
Concerto – A work for one instrument and orchestra.
Cadenza – A virtuosic solo passage, typically near the end of a movement.
Chamber Music – Music written for a small ensemble, usually one player per part.