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key term - Turns

Citation:

Definition

Turns are a type of embellishing tone that consist of a melodic ornament involving the main note being approached from above and below, creating a brief flourish in the melody. This ornament adds expressiveness and complexity to the music, often enhancing the emotional impact of a phrase. The turn typically moves from the principal note to the note above, back to the principal note, down to the note below, and then returns again to the principal note.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Turns can be notated with a specific symbol in sheet music that indicates where they should be executed, allowing for clarity in performance.
  2. They can appear in various musical styles and periods, enhancing both classical compositions and modern music with decorative flourishes.
  3. Turns usually occur on strong beats or important melodic points within a phrase, giving them added emphasis.
  4. When performed, turns should be played smoothly and quickly, maintaining the flow of the music while adding a touch of flair.
  5. Understanding how to properly execute turns is essential for performers, as they can dramatically alter the character of a piece.

Review Questions

  • How do turns function as embellishing tones within melodies, and what effect do they have on musical expression?
    • Turns function by adding decorative flourishes to melodies, typically enhancing their expressiveness. By approaching the main note from above and below, turns create movement and interest within a phrase. This embellishment allows performers to convey emotions more vividly, making the music feel richer and more dynamic.
  • In what ways do turns differ from other types of ornaments like mordents and trills?
    • Turns differ from mordents and trills primarily in their structure and execution. While turns involve a sequence of notes around a principal note, creating a wave-like effect, mordents consist of rapid alternation between a main note and an adjacent one, while trills involve quick alternation between two notes. Each ornament contributes its unique flavor to music, with turns offering more intricate melodic embellishment compared to the simpler nature of mordents and trills.
  • Evaluate the importance of turns in classical versus contemporary music and how their use reflects changes in musical style.
    • Turns play a significant role in both classical and contemporary music but reflect different stylistic approaches. In classical music, they are often used to showcase technical skill and add depth to melodic lines, emphasizing emotional expression within structured forms. In contemporary music, while still used for embellishment, turns may be incorporated more freely or creatively, adapting to diverse genres and innovative styles. This evolution highlights the adaptability of musical techniques as genres develop over time.

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