iMusicHistory interactiveLudwig van Beethoven, 1770-1827


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A

A
The note of the musical scale used generally for tuning
(= French, Italian, Spanish: la). Notes in English are given letter names, A,B,C,D,E,F and G.

a tempo
Return to the original tempo.


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B

Baroque
Name given to musical development period from about 1600 until the deaths of Bach and Handel in 1750 and 1759 respectively. Term came from the ornate architecture of Germany and Austria during the 17th and 18th centuries.


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C

Classical
Name given to musical development period from about 1750 to 1830, during which time was the development of the classical symphony and concerto, typified as orderly, emphasizing formal beauty. 'Classical music' is also used as a generic term to denote art music, or music that is not entertainment, light, or popular music (see Vernacular).
Coda
Closing section of a composition. An added ending.

Concerto
A composition (usually in symphonic form with three movements) in which one instrument (or two or three) stands out in bold relief against the orchestra, or accompaniment, so as to display its qualities or the performer's skill.


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D

Dynamics
Variation of loudness and intensity, such as loud (forte) and soft (piano).


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E

Étude
An exercise to develop one's technique playing an instrument.

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F

Finale
The last movement of a composition, or the final scene of a musical play or opera.


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G

Ground bass
Bass notes, typically in a pattern that are repeated, forming the foundation for harmony.


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H

Harmony
Simultaneous combinations of sounds.


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I

Interval
The distance in pitch between two notes.


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J


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K

Key signature
Sharp or flat placed on lines or spaces at the beginning of each staff.


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L

Libretto
The text for a musical stage work, such as an opera.


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M

Melody
A succession of tones, usually as a coherent line.


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