Definition

Noun: A succession of musical notes arranged in a particular, recognizable pattern to form a single, coherent musical idea. It is the principal, tune-carrying part in a piece of music.

Usage

A "melodic line" refers to the horizontal aspect of music—the tune or theme that is heard over time. It is the part you would hum or sing. This term is used in music analysis, composition, and performance to discuss the contour, shape, and structure of a tune.

Examples

• The violin carried the beautiful melodic line throughout the concerto.
• The composer is skilled at writing long, flowing melodic lines.
• Can you identify the main melodic line in this complex piece?

Advanced Usage

• "To spin out a melodic line": To develop or extend a melody in a seamless, often elaborate way.
  • The soprano spun out the melodic line with incredible breath control.
• In counterpoint, multiple independent melodic lines are woven together to create harmony.

Variants and Related Words

• Melody (n): A sequence of single notes that is musically satisfying; often used interchangeably with "melodic line," though "melody" is more general.
• Tune (n): A simple, easily remembered melody.
• Theme (n): A melody that forms the basis for a musical composition or section.
• Air (n): An old-fashioned or formal term for a melody or tune, especially a simple one.

Synonyms

• Melody
• Tune
• Theme
• Air

Related Phrases

• Linear motion: Movement in music that follows the contour of a melodic line, as opposed to harmonic (vertical) movement.
• Contour of a line: The overall shape of a melody, such as ascending, descending, or arched.

Related Idioms

• "To follow the line": To accurately perform or trace the path of a melody.
  • The singer followed the intricate line perfectly.

Noun

1. a succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence
   • she was humming an air from Beethoven