AOS2 - Music for ensemble

Improvisation

Making up music on the spot.

Blue notes

Flattened 3rd

Call & response

One phrase answered by another.

Riff/Ostinato

Repeated melodic or rhythmic phrase.

Walking bass

A steady bass line moving mainly in step

Swing rhythm

Long-short rhythm feel typical of jazz.

Syncopation

Off-beat emphasis.

12-bar blues

12-bar chord sequence using I–IV–V chords.

Big band

A large jazz ensemble with brass woodwind and rhythm section.

Bebop

A fast virtuosic jazz style with complex harmonies.

Verse-chorus

A structure used in songs (common in Musical Theatre).

Solo song

A song sung by one character to express feelings.

Duet

A song for two singers

Chorus

A song for larger group

Pit orchestra

Group of musicians playing in a theatre orchestra pit.

Hook

A catchy memorable melodic idea.

Recitative

A speech-like passage in musicals/opera that moves plot forward.

Chamber music

Music for small ensemble with one player per part.

String quartet

Two violins viola and cello.

Piano trio

Piano violin and cello.

Conversational texture

Melody lines passed between players.

Homophonic

Melody with chordal accompaniment.

Polyphonic

Two or more independent melodies.

Imitation

One part copies another closely.

Balance

Ensuring all parts are heard clearly in small ensemble.