Glossary

Venetian school

Late-Renaissance group of composers in Venice whose style included polychoral textures and the foundations of orchestration.

viola

In the violin family, the alto instrument played under the chin.

violin

In the violin family, the treble instrument played under the chin.

violin family

A family of bowed, four-string instruments from the 17th century, tuned in fifths and characterized by rounded backs and shoulders, f-shaped sound holes, deep middle bouts. See violin, viola, cello, and bass.

votive

A chant or hymn honoring a particular saint, or the Virgin Mary.

Wagner tuba

A five-valved horn with funnel-shaped mouthpieces designed by Richard Wagner for use in his music.

waist

A narrowing in the middle of the body of an instrument, resulting in a shape like an hourglass. Typically found in string instruments, and some drums.

Zigeunermusik

Gypsy music.

Zwischenspiel

Interlude.

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