Definition

Noun: A short, distinct musical idea or unit of melody, often forming a recognizable segment within a larger composition. It is a coherent musical thought, similar to a phrase in language.

Usage

A "musical phrase" is a fundamental building block in music. It is typically a few measures long and has a sense of completeness or a natural breathing point. It is used to analyze, describe, and teach musical structure.

Examples

• The opening musical phrase of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is instantly recognizable.
• The singer took a breath at the end of each musical phrase.
• Can you identify the repeating musical phrase in this jazz solo?

Advanced Usage

• Phrasing: The art of shaping and articulating musical phrases is called "phrasing." Good phrasing is essential for expressive performance.
  • The pianist's sensitive phrasing made the melody sing.

Variants and Related Words

• Phrase (n): In music, "phrase" is often used interchangeably with "musical phrase."
  • The violin played the final phrase beautifully.
• Motif / Motive (n): A very short, recurring musical phrase that carries symbolic significance.
  • The composer developed the entire movement from a simple four-note motif.
• Theme (n): A longer, more complete musical idea, often consisting of several phrases, that serves as a main subject.
  • The symphony's main theme is introduced by the cellos.

Synonyms

• Melodic line: A succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence.
• Passage: A short section of a piece of music.

Related Idioms and Expressions

• To catch a phrase: To hear and remember a short, catchy segment of music.
  • I only caught a phrase of that song on the radio, but I can't get it out of my head.

Noun

1. a short musical passage