| Term | Definition |
|---|
| figured bass | numbers below the bassline |
| basso continuo unit | 2 people, keyboard and cello |
| movement | a complete piece thats part of a larger work |
| Counterpoint | polyphonic, combining 2 or more melodic lines into a meaningful whole |
| Fugue | polyphonic compostion based on one main theme or subject |
| concerto | extended composition for instrumental soloist and orchestra, fast/slow/fast |
| concerto grosso | 3 soloists with an orchestra |
| solo concerto | 1 soloist and an orchestra |
| terraced dynamics | abrupt volume changes |
| oratorio | singing, with no acting |
| opera | singing with acting |
| suite | made up of dance movement |
| sonata | played on instruments, 4 movements- church/chamber |
| aria | emotional show-off |
| recitative | speechy portion of music |
| cantata | movements written for chorus, with instrumental ensamble |
| word painting | music imitating a story |
| ritornello | repeated section of music played by full orchestra |
| soprano | highest female voice |
| alto | lower female voice |
| tenor | high male voice |
| bass | lowest male voice |
| castrato | male singing soprano |
Combine with other sets
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