Augmented interval
An augmented interval is a musical interval that is one semitone larger than a perfect or major interval. It creates heightened tension and is used in a variety of harmonic contexts across many styles.
Read More →
Agitato (musical expression)
Agitato is an Italian musical term meaning “agitated,” used to instruct performers to play with a restless, hurried, or emotionally charged character. It modifies tempo markings rather than specifying a precise speed, shaping the mood of a passage.
Accidental (Music Notation)
An accidental is a symbol placed before a note to raise or lower its pitch by a semitone or whole tone, temporarily altering the key signature. Sharps, flats, naturals, double sharps, and double flats are the most common accidentals used in Western staff notation.
Fantasia (music)
A fantasia is a free‑form musical composition that emphasizes improvisatory style and structural flexibility. Originating in the Renaissance and Baroque eras, it has been employed by composers across classical, romantic, and modern periods.
Minor sixth
The minor sixth is a musical interval spanning eight semitones, equivalent to a distance of 800 cents in equal temperament. It can be heard in melody and harmony across many musical styles and has distinct acoustic properties in just intonation.
Flag (musical notation)
A flag is the curved line attached to a note stem that indicates a duration shorter than a quarter note. Flags appear on eighth notes, sixteenth notes, and smaller values, and their number determines the exact rhythmic length.
Intro (song structure)
An intro, short for introduction, is the opening section of a song that establishes its musical ideas, tempo, and mood before the main sections begin. It often sets up expectations for the listener and can vary widely across genres.
Con Brio (musical term)
Con brio is an Italian musical expression meaning “with vigor” or “with spirit.” It directs performers to play a passage energetically, often alongside faster tempos, and is used across classical and contemporary repertoire.
Caesura (music) – definition, notation, and performance
A caesura is a musical notation indicating a brief, complete pause or interruption in the flow of sound, often written as // and interpreted as a moment of silence at the performer’s discretion.
Major second
A major second is a musical interval spanning two semitones, also known as a whole tone. It is one of the basic building blocks of Western tonal music, appearing in scales, melodies, and harmonies.