English Glossary for Music Majors46

Introduction

The world of music is an international language. Whether you're a classical musician playing in an orchestra or a rock star performing in front of thousands, you're part of a global community. And just like any other community, music has its own unique vocabulary.

If you're not a native English speaker, learning the English terms for musical concepts can be a daunting task. But don't worry, we're here to help. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive glossary of the most important English words and phrases that you'll need to know as a music major.

Scales

A scale is a series of notes played in ascending or descending order. There are many different types of scales, but the most common are the major scale, the minor scale, and the pentatonic scale.* Major scale: The major scale is a series of seven notes, with each note separated by a whole step or a half step. The notes of the C major scale are C, D, E, F, G, A, and B.
* Minor scale: The minor scale is a series of seven notes, with each note separated by a whole step or a half step. There are three types of minor scales: the natural minor scale, the harmonic minor scale, and the melodic minor scale.
* Pentatonic scale: The pentatonic scale is a series of five notes, with each note separated by a whole step or a half step. The pentatonic scales are often used in folk music and rock music.

Intervals

An interval is the distance between two notes. Intervals are measured in half steps. The most common intervals are the second, the third, the fourth, the fifth, the sixth, the seventh, and the octave.* Second: A second is the interval between two notes that are separated by one half step.
* Third: A third is the interval between two notes that are separated by three half steps.
* Fourth: A fourth is the interval between two notes that are separated by five half steps.
* Fifth: A fifth is the interval between two notes that are separated by seven half steps.
* Sixth: A sixth is the interval between two notes that are separated by nine half steps.
* Seventh: A seventh is the interval between two notes that are separated by eleven half steps.
* Octave: An octave is the interval between two notes that are separated by twelve half steps.

Chords

A chord is a group of three or more notes that are played together. Chords are used to harmonize melodies and to create a sense of tension and release.* Major chord: A major chord is a chord that is built on a major scale. Major chords sound bright and cheerful.
* Minor chord: A minor chord is a chord that is built on a minor scale. Minor chords sound dark and sad.
* Dominant chord: A dominant chord is a chord that is built on the fifth note of a major or minor scale. Dominant chords create a sense of tension and forward motion.
* Subdominant chord: A subdominant chord is a chord that is built on the fourth note of a major or minor scale. Subdominant chords create a sense of stability and rest.

Rhythm

Rhythm is the pattern of beats in music. Rhythm is created by the duration of notes and rests.* Beat: A beat is the basic unit of time in music. Beats are usually measured in quarter notes.
* Note: A note is a symbol that represents a musical sound. Notes are given different durations, such as quarter notes, half notes, and whole notes.
* Rest: A rest is a symbol that represents silence. Rests are also given different durations, such as quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests.

Harmony

Harmony is the combination of different notes that are played together. Harmony can be used to create a sense of unity and balance in music.* Consonance: Consonance is the combination of notes that sound pleasant together. Consonant intervals include the octave, the fifth, and the fourth.
* Dissonance: Dissonance is the combination of notes that sound unpleasant together. Dissonant intervals include the second, the seventh, and the ninth.

Melody

Melody is a series of notes that are played one after another. Melodies can be simple or complex, and they can be used to create a sense of movement and direction in music.* Motive: A motive is a short musical idea that is used to develop a melody. Motives can be made up of just a few notes, or they can be more complex.
* Phrase: A phrase is a group of notes that form a musical statement. Phrases are usually separated by cadences.
* Cadence: A cadence is a group of notes that mark the end of a phrase or section of music. Cadences can be strong or weak.

Conclusion

This glossary is just a brief introduction to the English vocabulary of music. There are many other terms and phrases that you will need to learn as you continue your studies. But by mastering the basics, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful music major.

2025-02-06

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