Definition

Noun A nocturne; a musical composition, typically for the piano, that is of a lyrical, dreamy, and often melancholic or pensive character, evocative of the night or evening.

Usage and Examples

• The composer's notturno is celebrated for its delicate melody and reflective mood.
• She practiced the gentle notturno every evening, as its calm notes perfectly suited the quiet of the night.
• The concert program featured a notturno alongside more energetic sonatas, providing a moment of quiet contemplation.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Artistic Context: The term is particularly associated with the Romantic era of classical music. While "nocturne" is the more common English term, "notturno" is often used to refer specifically to pieces in this style or to retain the original title of a work.
  • Chopin's set of notturnos are considered masterpieces of the piano repertoire.

Variants and Related Words

• Nocturne (noun): The direct and more frequently used English equivalent for "notturno."
• Notturni (noun): The plural form of "notturno."

Synonyms

• Nocturne
• Serenade (in some historical, evening-related contexts)
• Night piece

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning is a lyrical, often slow, instrumental piece conveying a mood associated with night—quiet, intimate, thoughtful, or romantic. It is not a term for vocal music or for fast, dramatic compositions.

Noun

1. a pensive lyrical piece of music (especially for the piano)