Music Dictionary for Kids - V

from Music Dictionary for Kids Index



A B C D E F G H I J K L
M N O P Q R S T U V W X-Y-Z

VARIATION - A version of a musical theme that is changed on each repeat, though still recognizable. The new version may include changes to the harmony, melody, counterpoint, rhythm, timbre and orchestration.

VIBRATO - A pulsating change in the pitch to add warmth and expression to the tone.

GIUSEPPE VERDI - (1813-1901) An Italian Romantic Era composer. Verdi is considered one of the best opera composers of the nineteenth century. His popular opera's include Rigoletto, Nabucco, and Aida.

VIOLA - A member of the string family. Slightly bigger than the violin and plays notes that are lower in pitch. The tone of the viola is darker and less brilliant than the violin.

VIOLA CLEF - The C clef identifying the third line of the staff as C. It is currently used for the viola, viola da gamba and alto trombone.

VIOLIN - The smallest and highest sounding member of the string family. The orchestra has more violins than any other single instrument. The violin rests on the left shoulder, and is kept in place by the players chin. The left hand is responsible for fingering the notes, while the right hand plucks or bows the strings. Antonio Stradivari's (1644-1737) violins are regarded as the finest violins ever built.

VIRTUOSO - A person with outstanding technical musical ability.

VIVACE - Quick, lively.

ANTONIO VIVALDI - (1678-1741) An Italian Baroque Era composer. His Four Seasons is his most popular work, and is among the most popular works of the Baroque Era. Read more...

VIVO - Lively, fast.