Music Dictionary for Kids - K

from Music Dictionary for Kids Index



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DMITRI KABALEVSKY - (1904-1987) Russian Modern Era composer. Kabalevsky's most important contribution to music is perhaps his effort to connect children to music. His "Twenty-Four Little Pieces" for piano solo is an example of the music he composed with the intention of bridging the gap between children's technical skills and musical aesthetics. He also led a music education pilot program in twenty-five Soviet schools. Read more...

HERBERT VON KARAJAN - (1908-1989) An Austrian conductor. Karajan was the principal conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic for 35 years, and is regarded by many as one of the finest conductors of the 20th century.

STAN KENTON - (1911-1979) An influential big band leader, pianist, composer, and arranger who made an indelible mark on big band jazz.

KETTLEDRUM - An instrument from the percussion family. Unlike most percussion instruments, a kettle drum produces a pitch when struck. Most symphony orchestras use three or four kettle drums of various sizes. Also called "Timpani".

KEY - The tonal center of the composition.

KEYBOARD - A set of levers or keys on a musical instrument, such as a piano, harpsichord or organ. Also, a portable electronic piano.

KEY SIGNATURE - The sharps or flats placed on the staff at the beginning of the composition to indicate the key (tonal center) of the music.