Italian Music Terms
Define Italian terms.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Ab libitum
- A.
Proceed without break
- B.
At liberty of performer
- C.
Right hand
- D.
In the manner of
Correct Answer
B. At liberty of performerExplanation
The phrase "ab libitum" is a Latin term that means "at the liberty of the performer." It is commonly used in music to indicate that the performer has the freedom to interpret or improvise certain parts of the piece. This means that the performer can deviate from the written score and make decisions on their own, adding their personal touch to the performance. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "at liberty of performer."Rate this question:
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- 2.
Alla, all'
- A.
Very much
- B.
With
- C.
More
- D.
In the manner of
Correct Answer
D. In the manner ofExplanation
The phrase "in the manner of" is used to describe how something is done or to compare something to a similar style or behavior. In this context, it suggests that "alla" and "all'" are being used to imitate or mimic a certain manner or style.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Allargando
- A.
Becoming slower
- B.
Animated
- C.
Slower than allegro
- D.
Brilliant
- E.
Becoming slower
Correct Answer(s)
A. Becoming slower
E. Becoming slowerExplanation
The term "allargando" is used in music to indicate a gradual slowing down of the tempo. It is often associated with a more expressive and relaxed interpretation of the music. Therefore, the correct answer "becoming slower" accurately describes the meaning of "allargando". The term "animated" refers to a lively and energetic interpretation, while "brilliant" describes something bright and shining. Both of these terms are not synonymous with "becoming slower", making them incorrect answers.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Assai
- A.
Very much
- B.
Without
- C.
In the manner of
- D.
Well
Correct Answer
A. Very muchExplanation
The word "assai" means "very much" in Italian. It is used to emphasize the intensity or extent of something. For example, if someone says "Mi piace assai" it means "I like it very much." Therefore, "very much" is the correct answer as it accurately represents the meaning of "assai."Rate this question:
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- 5.
Attaca
- A.
With attack
- B.
Proceed without a break
- C.
Short and detached
- D.
Discomforting
Correct Answer
B. Proceed without a breakExplanation
The word "attaca" is a musical term that instructs performers to proceed without a break or pause between movements or sections. This term is commonly used in classical music scores to indicate that the next section should be played immediately after the previous one, without any interruption. Therefore, the correct answer "proceed without a break" accurately describes the meaning of "attaca" in the context of music.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Bewegt
- A.
Agitated, excited
- B.
Brilliant
- C.
Expresssive
- D.
Fast
Correct Answer
A. Agitated, excitedExplanation
The word "Bewegt" in German can be translated to English as "agitated" or "excited". This is because "Bewegt" is an adjective that describes a state of being in which someone is emotionally stirred up or experiencing heightened emotions. It can also imply a sense of restlessness or unease. Therefore, "agitated" and "excited" are both suitable translations for "Bewegt".Rate this question:
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- 7.
Col, coll', colla, colle
- A.
Well
- B.
Without
- C.
Good
- D.
With
Correct Answer
D. WithExplanation
The word "with" is the correct answer because it is the only option that is grammatically correct and makes sense in the given sentence. The other options, "well," "without," and "good," do not fit in the context of the sentence and would result in an incomplete or nonsensical phrase.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Comodo
- A.
Moderately fast
- B.
With spirit
- C.
At a comfortable, easy tempo
- D.
At an uneasy, discomforting tempo
Correct Answer
C. At a comfortable, easy tempoExplanation
The term "comodo" is an Italian musical term that means "comfortable" or "easy." In the context of tempo, it indicates that the music should be played at a moderate speed, neither too fast nor too slow. Therefore, the correct answer "at a comfortable, easy tempo" accurately describes the meaning of "comodo" in relation to tempo.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Con sordino
- A.
With slides
- B.
With mute
- C.
With style
- D.
With sardines
Correct Answer
B. With muteExplanation
The term "con sordino" is an Italian musical term that means "with mute." When a musician plays with mute, it means they are using a device that is placed on their instrument to dampen or muffle the sound. This can create a softer and more muted tone. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "with mute."Rate this question:
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- 10.
Dolente
- A.
Gracefully
- B.
Sweetly
- C.
Sad
- D.
Happy
Correct Answer
C. SadExplanation
The word "dolente" is an Italian adjective that translates to "sad" in English. Therefore, the correct answer is "sad".Rate this question:
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- 11.
E, ed
- A.
And
- B.
With
- C.
Well
- D.
Not
Correct Answer
A. AndExplanation
The given answer "and" is correct because it is a conjunction that is used to connect words, phrases, or clauses together. It is commonly used to join two similar ideas or to add additional information to a sentence. In this case, "and" can be used to connect two words or phrases together, creating a compound word or indicating a relationship between the two.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Giocoso
- A.
Gracefully
- B.
With a laugh
- C.
Happy, enjoying
- D.
Humourous, joyful
Correct Answer
D. Humourous, joyfulExplanation
The word "giocoso" is an Italian musical term that means "playful" or "joyful." It is often used to describe a piece of music that is light-hearted and full of humor. Therefore, the correct answer "humorous, joyful" accurately captures the meaning of "giocoso" and its connotations of happiness and enjoyment.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Grandioso
- A.
Humorous, joyful
- B.
Grand, grandiose
- C.
Great, with life
- D.
Grand piano
Correct Answer
B. Grand, grandioseExplanation
The word "grandioso" is an adjective that means grand or grandiose. It can be used to describe something that is impressive, magnificent, or majestic. In this context, the word is used to describe something that is great or grand in nature. The word "grand" is a synonym for "grandioso" and also means large or impressive. Therefore, the correct answer is "grand, grandiose."Rate this question:
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- 14.
Grave
- A.
Slow and solemn
- B.
Dying, fading
- C.
Gracefully
- D.
Broadly
Correct Answer
A. Slow and solemnExplanation
The word "grave" is often used to describe a slow and solemn manner or atmosphere. It can refer to a serious and somber tone or demeanor. Therefore, the answer "slow and solemn" is an appropriate description for the word "grave".Rate this question:
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- 15.
Grazioso
- A.
Graceful
- B.
Slow and solemn
- C.
Great
- D.
Congratulations
Correct Answer
A. GracefulExplanation
The word "grazioso" is an Italian word that translates to "graceful" in English. "Graceful" means having elegance, beauty, and poise in movement or appearance. This word is often used to describe someone or something that moves or behaves in a smooth, controlled, and aesthetically pleasing way. Therefore, "graceful" is the correct answer that best aligns with the meaning of "grazioso".Rate this question:
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- 16.
Largamente
- A.
Slow and solemn
- B.
Long
- C.
Broadly
- D.
Short and detached
Correct Answer
C. BroadlyExplanation
The term "largamente" is an Italian musical term that indicates playing in a broad or expansive manner. It suggests that the music should be performed with a sense of breadth and spaciousness, allowing for a wide range of expression. Therefore, the correct answer is "broadly," as it best captures the meaning and intention of the term "largamente."Rate this question:
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- 17.
Leggiero
- A.
Short, detached
- B.
Smoothly
- C.
Broadly
- D.
Light, nimble, quick
Correct Answer
D. Light, nimble, quickExplanation
The word "leggiero" is an Italian musical term that is commonly used to describe a light, nimble, and quick style of playing or singing. In music, it refers to a performance that is executed with agility and grace, characterized by a fast tempo and a delicate touch. Therefore, the answer "light, nimble, quick" accurately captures the essence of the term "leggiero" in the context of music.Rate this question:
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- 18.
L'istesso tempo
- A.
In the original tempo
- B.
The same tempo
- C.
A faster tempo
- D.
Choose your own tempo
Correct Answer
B. The same tempoExplanation
The term "l'istesso tempo" means "the same tempo" in Italian. This indicates that the performer should maintain the original tempo throughout the piece, without any changes in speed. It is a musical instruction used to ensure consistency and continuity in the performance.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Loco
- A.
Play in another clef
- B.
Go to new register
- C.
Return to normal register
- D.
Return to normal clef
Correct Answer
C. Return to normal registerExplanation
The term "register" in music refers to the range of pitches that a particular instrument or voice can produce. In this context, "return to normal register" means going back to the original range of pitches after playing in a different range. This could be done by either changing the fingering or position on the instrument or adjusting the vocal technique.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Martellato
- A.
Strongly accented, hammered
- B.
Marked
- C.
Accented, without a mark
- D.
Strong marked
Correct Answer
A. Strongly accented, hammeredExplanation
Martellato is an Italian musical term that indicates a strongly accented and hammered style of playing. It is used to instruct musicians to play a note or passage with a forceful and emphasized attack. This technique produces a sharp and distinct sound, adding intensity and emphasis to the music. The term "hammered" suggests that the notes should be played with a percussive quality, as if struck with a hammer. Therefore, the correct answer is "strongly accented, hammered."Rate this question:
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- 21.
Meno messo
- A.
Less and more
- B.
Movement
- C.
Less movement
- D.
More movement
Correct Answer
C. Less movementExplanation
The phrase "meno messo" translates to "less movement" in English. The options provided in the question are "less and more movement", "movement", "less movement", and "more movement". Out of these options, "less movement" is the correct answer as it accurately translates the given phrase.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Mesto
- A.
Moderately
- B.
Sad, mournful
- C.
At an easy tempo
- D.
Little
Correct Answer
B. Sad, mournfulExplanation
The word "mesto" is used to describe something that is sad or mournful. It implies a feeling of sorrow or grief. This word does not have any connection to the other options provided, such as "moderately," "at an easy tempo," or "little." Therefore, the correct answer is "sad, mournful."Rate this question:
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- 23.
Molto
- A.
Little, few
- B.
Well
- C.
With
- D.
Much, very
Correct Answer
D. Much, veryExplanation
The correct answer is "much, very". Both "much" and "very" are adverbs that are used to intensify or emphasize the degree or extent of something. In this context, they are used to describe the intensity or extent of something, possibly indicating a large amount or high level. "Molto" in Italian can be translated as "much" or "very", which aligns with the given answer.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Morendo
- A.
Weighty, with emphasis
- B.
Dying, fading away
- C.
Always, continuously
- D.
Playful
Correct Answer
B. Dying, fading awayExplanation
The term "morendo" is a musical term that indicates a gradual decrease in volume and tempo, ultimately leading to a dying or fading away of the sound. This term is often used in expressive and emotional pieces of music to create a sense of melancholy or loss. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "dying, fading away."Rate this question:
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- 25.
Pesante
- A.
Sad, mournful
- B.
Dying, fading away
- C.
Pressing, becoming faster
- D.
Weighty, with emphasis
Correct Answer
D. Weighty, with emphasisExplanation
The word "pesante" is an Italian musical term that means "heavy" or "weighty." In the context of this question, "pesante" is being used to describe something with emphasis. Therefore, the correct answer is "weighty, with emphasis."Rate this question:
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- 26.
Ritenuto
- A.
Suddenly slower, held back
- B.
Legato for multiple phrases
- C.
Repeat a tenuto
- D.
Always, continously
Correct Answer
A. Suddenly slower, held backExplanation
The term "ritenuto" in music refers to suddenly slowing down the tempo and holding back the notes. It indicates a sudden change in speed, creating a sense of slowing down and a more restrained or held back performance. This term is often used to add expressiveness and emphasis to a specific musical phrase or section.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Senza
- A.
With
- B.
Without
- C.
And
- D.
Well
Correct Answer
B. WithoutExplanation
The correct answer is "without". "Senza" is an Italian word that means "without". It is used to indicate the absence or lack of something. In this context, "without" is the appropriate translation for "senza".Rate this question:
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- 28.
Sostenuto
- A.
Ritenuto
- B.
Repeating tenutos
- C.
Sustained
- D.
Pressing, becoming faster
Correct Answer
C. SustainedExplanation
The term "sustained" refers to a musical note or passage that is held for a longer duration. It indicates that the note should be played or sung for its full length without any interruption. In contrast to other options like "repeating tenutos" or "pressing, becoming faster," which suggest a different type of musical expression or technique, "sustained" specifically emphasizes the need to hold the note for an extended period of time. Therefore, "sustained" is the correct answer in this context.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Sotto voce
- A.
Short and detached
- B.
Sonorous
- C.
Boisterous, noisy
- D.
Softly, subdued, under the breath
Correct Answer
D. Softly, subdued, under the breathExplanation
The term "sotto voce" refers to speaking softly or in a subdued manner, almost under the breath. It implies a low volume and a sense of secrecy or confidentiality. This is the best fit among the given options, as "short and detached" does not capture the meaning of speaking softly, "sonorous" means having a rich and deep sound, and "boisterous, noisy" is the opposite of speaking softly.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Strepitso
- A.
Lively, animated
- B.
Agitated, excited
- C.
Brilliant
- D.
Boisterous, noisy
Correct Answer
D. Boisterous, noisyExplanation
The word "strepitso" is not a recognized English word, so it is difficult to provide a precise explanation for the given answer. However, based on the options provided, "boisterous, noisy" seems to be the most appropriate choice as it aligns with the definition of the word "strepitso" being loud and rowdy.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Stringendo
- A.
Pressing, becoming faster
- B.
Bowing strings
- C.
Sudden strong accent
- D.
Suddenly
Correct Answer
A. Pressing, becoming fasterExplanation
The term "stringendo" refers to a musical direction that indicates the music should be played with increasing speed and intensity. It is often used to instruct musicians to press the keys or strings of their instruments with more force, resulting in a louder and more forceful sound. Therefore, the correct answer "pressing, becoming faster" accurately describes the meaning of "stringendo" in musical notation.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Subito
- A.
Soon
- B.
Short and detached
- C.
Suddenly
- D.
Quickly
Correct Answer
C. SuddenlyExplanation
The word "subito" is an Italian word that translates to "suddenly" in English. This suggests that the correct answer is "suddenly" because it is the most accurate translation of the given word.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Tacet
- A.
Suddenly
- B.
Be silent
- C.
Quiet, tranquil
- D.
Short
Correct Answer
B. Be silentExplanation
The word "tacet" means to be silent. It is derived from the Latin word "tacēre," which also means to be silent or quiet. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "be silent."Rate this question:
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- 34.
Tranquillo
- A.
Quiet, tranquil
- B.
Entire ensemble
- C.
Slowing down
- D.
Lively, brisk
Correct Answer
A. Quiet, tranquilExplanation
The word "tranquillo" is an Italian term that translates to "quiet" or "tranquil" in English. It refers to a state or atmosphere of calmness and peacefulness. This term is often used in music to indicate a slow and serene tempo, allowing for a soothing and relaxing experience. Therefore, the given answer "quiet, tranquil" accurately reflects the meaning of "tranquillo" and its connotations of quietness and tranquility.Rate this question:
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