Theory
160 terms
Accelerando
Accelerando is a gradual speeding up of the tempo.
Adagio
Adagio is a slow, solemn tempo of roughly 66–76 beats per minute.
A cappella
A cappella is singing without instrumental accompaniment, by voices alone.
Chord
A chord is a sonority of three or more pitches of different heights sounded simultaneously.
Accent
An accent is the emphasis of a single note through strength, duration, or pitch to give it special weight within a phrase.
Allegro
Allegro is a lively, fast tempo (120–168 BPM) conveying energy, joy, and forward motion.
Allemande
The allemande is a moderate old dance of German origin in duple meter, which usually opens the Baroque suite.
Andante
Andante is a moderate walking tempo of roughly 76–108 BPM. A natural, calm pace often used in the slow movements of sonatas and symphonies.
Appoggiatura
An appoggiatura is a melodic ornament, a “leaning” dissonant note on a strong beat that resolves into the main chord tone.
Aria
An aria is an extended solo number in an opera or oratorio in which a character reveals their feelings.
