Which of the following terms refers to a sequence that is consistently repeated within a musical structure?

Which of the following terms refers to a sequence that is consistently repeated within a musical structure?

• A. Allegro
• B. Rubato
• C. Ostinato
• D. Moderato

Answer: (C)

The term that refers to a sequence that is consistently repeated within a musical structure is "ostinato." An ostinato is a musical phrase or pattern that is persistently repeated in the same voice, typically providing the foundational element of the piece. This can be in various forms, such as a melodic, harmonic, or rhythmic pattern, and is a crucial technique in many genres of music. For instance, in a piece where a specific melody or rhythm is played repeatedly while other musical elements vary, the repeated pattern stabilizes the piece and often contributes to its overall character and mood. This technique is prevalent in classical compositions, modern music, and even in certain forms of world music, allowing musicians to create intricate layers over a consistent thematic core. The other terms relate to different musical concepts. "Allegro" refers to a fast tempo, while "rubato" denotes a flexible tempo that allows performers to stretch or compress time expressively. "Moderato" indicates a moderate tempo, positioning it as neither fast nor slow. These terms describe tempo and expressive timing rather than a specific structural repetition found in ostinatos.

The term that refers to a sequence that is consistently repeated within a musical structure is "ostinato." An ostinato is a musical phrase or pattern that is persistently repeated in the same voice, typically providing the foundational element of the piece. This can be in various forms, such as a melodic, harmonic, or rhythmic pattern, and is a crucial technique in many genres of music.

For instance, in a piece where a specific melody or rhythm is played repeatedly while other musical elements vary, the repeated pattern stabilizes the piece and often contributes to its overall character and mood. This technique is prevalent in classical compositions, modern music, and even in certain forms of world music, allowing musicians to create intricate layers over a consistent thematic core.

The other terms relate to different musical concepts. "Allegro" refers to a fast tempo, while "rubato" denotes a flexible tempo that allows performers to stretch or compress time expressively. "Moderato" indicates a moderate tempo, positioning it as neither fast nor slow. These terms describe tempo and expressive timing rather than a specific structural repetition found in ostinatos.