Basic Terms

Here's a vocabulary list of words you'll hear in concert ensemble rehearsal, and what they mean.

1. Tempo
How fast or slow the music is played.

2. Dynamics
How loud or soft you play (like forte = loud, piano = soft)

3. Articulation
How a note is played—short, long, accented, smooth, etc.

4. Phrase
A musical “sentence.” Music is grouped into phrases, not just notes.

5. Balance
Making sure the important parts are heard, and others don’t overpower.

6. Blend
Matching your sound with others so the section sounds unified.

7. Intonation
Playing in tune with the people around you.

8. Cutoff / Release
When and how you stop a note together.

9. Entrance
The exact moment you come in to play.

10. Conductor
The person leading the group, showing tempo, dynamics, and cues.

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