A metrical pulse. The marking of such a pulse by movements of the hand in conducting. For the grouping of beats in recurring patterns of strong and weak beats, see meter. [compare with rhythm: The sub [..]

Three or more pitches sounded simultaneously or functioning as if sounded simultaneously. Two such pitches are normally referred to as an interval.

The scale that includes all of the 12 pitches (and thus all of the 12 semitones) contained in an octave, as distinct from the diatonic scale.

1. Acoustics; consonance is the sympathetic vibration of soundwaves of different frequencies related as the ratios of small whole numbers. Consonance and dissonance are relative acoustic states that e [..]

A scale consisting of five whole tones and two semitones. Music that is performed using only the notes of a diatonic scale is called diatonic. See also major scale.

Long, sustained tones, usually in a low register.

A generic term for any string instrument played with a bow.

An interval of three wholetones and one semitone.

The constructive or organizing element in music. Form means that a piece is organized: i.e. that it consists of elements functioning like those of a living organism. . . The chief requirements for the [..]

The aspect of music consisting of simultaneously sounded pitches as opposed to pitches sounded in succession (see melody) or melodies sounded at the same time (called counterpoint). Harmony is the ver [..]