What is an ostinato?

An ostinato is a repeated pattern of notes. It can be either rhythmic, melodic, or both. You can also augment/ diminish an ostinato which is especially common in minimalist music.

AJ
Answered by Alice J. Music tutor

11380 Views

See similar Music GCSE tutors

Related Music GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between a perfect cadence and a plagal cadence?


What is the difference between the Baroque period and Classical period?


What are the key features of expressionist music?


In the Baroque era, what instrument most commonly played the basso continuo?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning