libretto
The text or script of an opera, oratorio, or musical.
In Depth
Wagner wrote his own libretti for all his major operas, making him one of the few figures in history to have created both the words and music of an entire four-opera cycle lasting 15 hours.
Related Terms
More in Form
Browse allA 32-bar song form consisting of four 8-bar sections: two statements of the theme, a contrasting bridge, and a return
The slow, meditative opening section of an Indian classical raga performance, exploring the raga without rhythm.
A palindromic musical structure that mirrors itself around a central axis, typically ABCBA
A self-contained song for a solo voice, typically in an opera or oratorio.
A period of medieval Western music from approximately 1170 to 1310, characterized by the development of early polyphony.
A musical style of the late medieval period (c. 1310–1377), notable for its rhythmic innovation and increased complexity.
A short, light piano piece, often of modest technical demands
A dramatic moment in electronic music where a deep, sub-bass frequency is suddenly introduced.