Section 2: Definitions

For the sake of progression in this chapter, all of your definitions will be given to your first. Please review each of them carefully as you will come across all of them again and again. Don't worry if you don't fully understand them or how they apply to music. Just be familiar with what they mean.

1. Melody: A rhythmically organized sequence of single tones so related to one another as to make up a particular phrase or idea.
2. Phrase: A short passage or segment, often consisting of four measures or forming part of a larger unit; a stanza.
3. Intro: A brief introductory passage to a piece of music.
4. Verse: A division of a metrical composition, such as a stanza of a poem or hymn.
5. Chorus: A refrain based on the main melody of a song.
6. Refrain: A phrase, verse, or group of verses repeated at intervals throughout a song or poem, especially at the end of each stanza.
7. Bridge: A transitional passage connecting two subjects or movements.
8. Ending: A brief closing passage to a piece of music.
9. Chord Progression: A series of chords that moves the song ahead.
10. Rhythmic Pattern: A system of versification.
11. Syncopation: A shift of accent in a passage or composition that occurs when a normally weak beat is stressed.