Melodic Contour
Definition
Melodic contour refers to the shape or direction of a melody when it moves up, down, or stays on the same pitch level over time.
Analogy
Imagine you're hiking up and down hills in a beautiful landscape. The path you take represents the melodic contour - whether it goes uphill (ascending), downhill (descending), or stays on a flat surface (static). It's like the musical landscape of a melody!
Related terms
Ascending: When the melodic contour moves higher in pitch.
Descending: When the melodic contour moves lower in pitch.
Static: When the melodic contour remains on the same pitch level.
"Melodic Contour" appears in:
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