Songwriter’s Dictionary

AABA Form: A song structure where section (A) is repeated, followed by a different section (B), and then returning to the original section (A).

ABABCAB Form: A song structure that includes a bridge or break (C-section) within the repeating pattern.

Arpeggio: A broken chord where the notes are played or sung individually.

Bridge: A contrasting section that connects the verse and chorus. It provides variety and often builds tension.

Cadenza: An improvised or virtuosic solo passage, often found in classical music.

Chorus: The central part of a song, usually repeated several times. It contains the main theme or hook.

Coda: A concluding section at the end of a musical composition.

Counterpoint: The art of combining multiple melodies harmoniously.

Da capo (D.C.): Return to the beginning of the piece.

Diminuendo: A gradual decrease in volume.

Dynamics: The variations in volume (e.g., pianissimo, forte) to convey expression.

Fermata: A symbol indicating that a note or rest should be held longer than its usual duration.

Glissando: A rapid slide or transition between two pitches.

Harmonics: Pure, bell-like tones produced by lightly touching a string at specific points.

Harmony: The combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to create a pleasing sound.

Hook: A memorable, catchy phrase or melody that sticks in the listener’s mind.

Legato: Connecting notes smoothly, without breaks.

Lick: A short, improvised melodic phrase, often used in jazz and blues.

Lyric: The words or text of a song, often expressing emotions, stories, or ideas.

Melody: The sequence of musical notes that form the main theme of a song.

Modulation: A key change within a song, often used to create variety or build tension.

Ornament: Decorative musical embellishments (e.g., trills, grace notes).

Ostinato: A repeated musical pattern or motif.

Overture: An instrumental introduction to an opera or musical work.

Pizzicato: Plucking the strings of a bowed instrument (e.g., violin, cello).

Pre-chorus: A transitional section leading into the chorus. It sets up the emotional peak.

Refrain: A repeated line or phrase within a song, often found in the chorus.

Riff: A short, repeated musical phrase, often associated with rock and blues music.

Rubato: A flexible tempo, allowing expressive variations in speed.

Segue: A smooth transition from one musical section to another.

Sight-reading: Playing or singing music from written notation without prior practice.

Staccato: Playing or singing notes in a short, detached manner.

Syncopation: Accenting off-beat rhythms for rhythmic interest.

Tempo: The speed at which a piece of music is played.

Timbre: The unique quality or color of a sound, often described as “tone.”

Tremolo: Rapid repetition of a single note or alternation between two notes.

Tritone: An interval spanning three whole tones (e.g., C to F#).

Vamp: A repeated chord progression used as an accompaniment.

Verse: A section of a song that typically tells a story or conveys emotions. It often precedes the chorus.

Vivace: A lively and brisk tempo indication.