Music Terminology: Duration, Rhythm, and Tempo

Flashcards covering key concepts related to duration, rhythm, and tempo in music.

What is the regular pulse in music called?

Beat

How are beats placed into repeated groups defined?

Metre

What is Duple Metre?

A metre with 2 beats.

What does a time signature indicate?

How many beats are per bar.

What is the time signature for four crotchet beats per bar?

4/4

Name the note value that lasts the longest.

Semibreve

What are combinations of note values and rests that create a pattern of long and short sounds called?

Rhythm Patterns

What term describes the speed of a piece of music?

Tempo

What is an Ostinato in music?

A short repeated rhythmic pattern.

What is Syncopation?

When a rhythm is played on the off beat.

What are Rhythmic Layers?

Instruments providing rhythm in a piece and their role.

What does Mixed Metre refer to?

Changing time signatures in a piece.

Define Rubato in musical terms.

Playing with freedom – stretching the time.

What are some examples of Rhythmic Devices?

Rhythmic ostinato, syncopation, repetition, swing rhythm, rock beat.