Top answers

Which cadence is often referred to as the 'Amen' Cadence?

The plagal cadence - IV to I
AH
Answered by Ashleigh H. • Music tutor
5646 Views

Is this piece in a major or minor key?

This seemingly easy question can be a great way of assessing student's ability to hear major/minor tonalities and ability to read music - e.g. are there any naturals, sharps, or flats on the sheet music? Cou...
LF
Answered by Lydia F. • Music tutor
5059 Views

What is a Tierce de Picardie?

A Tierce de Picarie ('Picardy Third') is a surprise major chord at the end of a piece. Whilst the piece is predominantly in a minor mode, the final chord (which will always be the tonic in music of this peri...
HW
Answered by Harriet W. • Music tutor
29063 Views

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
12080 Views

How can I think of a melody for my composition?

Melodies can seem really hard to invent, but it's actually quite easy if you go about it the right way. Listen to the start of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4IRMYuE1...
CA
Answered by Caitlin A. • Music tutor
4894 Views