Composer Profile - Activefolio

Glossary 161
triple meter A metric pattern of one strong beat and two weak beats; three beats to
every measure.
trombone A brass instrument in the tenor range that is able to change pitches by its
mechanism of a sliding tube which lengthens or shortens the distance air has to
travel within the instrument. See sackbut.
troubadours Medieval musician-poets who came from southern France.
trouvéres Medieval musician-poets who came from northern France.
trumpet Highest pitched of the brass family instruments that changes pitches by
means of valve mechanisms.
tuba Lowest and largest of the brass family instruments that changes pitches by
means of valve mechanisms.
tubular bells See chimes.
tutti Italian term meaning “all.” Signifies that the whole ensemble should play.
twelve-tone Compositional technique from the twentieth century, by which tone
rows are chosen based on the twelve chromatic tones. Designed to avoid a tonal
center. See Expressionism.
two-part form See binary form.
unison Same notes played or sung simultaneously.
verismo “Realism” in opera. A style popular in Italy which attempted to bring a
sense of naturalism to lyric theatre.
vibraphone A percussion instrument made up of metal bars which produce vibrato
by means of electronically generated rotating propellers under each bar.
vibrato Small fluctuations of pitch or dynamics used as an optional expressive
device.
Viennese School The Classical period title given to Mozart, Beethoven and Haydn.
viola A middle-range string family instrument that is the second highest of the
violin family.
viola da gamba Renaissance consort of string instruments with six or more strings,
frets similar to the guitar, but held between the knees like a cello.
violin Highest-ranged member of the string family, bowed or plucked strings create
the sound.
violoncello Middle to low-ranged member of the string family with a darker, richer
sound and lower than the viola.
virtuoso Performer of extraordinary technique and skill, or a piece which shows off
the skills of the performer.
vivace Lively and fast.
vocalise A vocal melody with no words, for example a study piece.
volume See dynamics.
waltz A dance in triple meter.
whole step The interval consisting of two half steps.