Glossary
Bridge
A specific type of interlude found in vocal music, appearing before the final chorus to provide a contrasting section that builds tension leading back to the chorus.
Example:
In a pop song, the bridge often introduces new melodic or harmonic material, creating anticipation before the final, powerful chorus.
Chorus
The main, repeating section of a song that features the most memorable melody and lyrics, conveying the central message or emotion.
Example:
After a narrative verse, the catchy chorus of a pop song often repeats the main title and hook, making it easily recognizable.
Coda
The final section of a musical piece, appearing after the main body, designed to bring the work to a satisfying and definitive conclusion.
Example:
Beethoven's symphonies often feature extended codas that provide a grand and conclusive ending to a movement.
Codetta
A short, concluding section that appears at the end of a phrase or movement, providing a sense of resolution and closure for that specific section.
Example:
A brief, repeated rhythmic figure at the end of a sonata's first theme group might serve as a codetta before the transition to the next section.
Exposition
The opening section of a piece where the main musical ideas, or themes, are introduced, establishing the key and form for what follows.
Example:
In a classical sonata, the exposition presents the primary theme in the tonic key and a secondary theme in a related key.
Interlude
A musical piece that serves as a transition or break between two main sections of a larger work, offering a contrast in mood, rhythm, or style.
Example:
An opera might feature an instrumental interlude to signify a passage of time or a change of scene between acts.
Refrain
A repeated lyrical phrase or hook in a song that may vary its harmonic progressions and melodies, but consistently repeats the same lyrics.
Example:
Even if the melody shifts slightly, the repeated phrase 'Nevermore' in a song could function as a powerful refrain.
Verse
A section of a song that tells the story or sets the background, characterized by its own melody and rhythm, with lyrics that change upon each repetition.
Example:
The first verse of a folk song might describe the setting, while subsequent verses advance the narrative.