has a main theme (A) which returns throughout the work, alternated with other themes to form a composition

usually used for higher pitched voices or instruments

main theme or part of a musical composition, the "tune"

degree of loudness and softness

simple melody performed by different groups of singers starting at different times

a basic musical idea repeated over and over

instruments such as the drums or xylophone

includes the flute, clarinet, saxophone

accompanying parts or musical lines that are not the melody; blend with/support the melody

a combination of music and theatre that involves a story sung on stage with sets, costumes, lights, and orchestra

often used in ritual and religious music; a line is sung/played and another group/artist responds to it

sung dialogue between performers that moves the plot along; like sung speech

structure, style, and genre of a composition

refers to how the melody, rhythm, tempo, harmony, dynamics, and timbre of the theme are modified

music played by the orchestra before the curtain opens for the first act; usually contains a medley of all important themes sung during the production

speed of the beat or pulse, often described using Italian terms

marker used to increase the volume (<)

usually used for lower pitched voices or instruments

patterns of sounds and silence; how sounds and silence divide time