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syllabic

Back

Where there is one note to each syllable.

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Melismatic

Back

Where several notes are sung to one syllable.

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Word painting

Back

When the music reflects the meaning of a word.

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Ground bass

Back

A repeated melodic pattern in the bassline, which acts as a structural device.

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Conjunct

Back

When the melody moves in steps of a tone or semitone.

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Disjunct

Back

A melodic movement in leaps.

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Ornamentation

Back

The decorations (or embellishment) of the melody, e.g., trills, turns, grace notes.

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Sequence

Back

A melodic or harmonic pattern that repeats but starting on a different note on each repetition.

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Imitation

Back

When a melody is heard in one part and then repeats in another part starting a few notes later while the other part continues playing. This creates a contrapuntal texture.

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Basso continuo

Back

The accompanying bassline and chordal outline in a Baroque piece played by a keyboard instrument (such as the harpsichord).