Das Ostinato



Example: Das komplexe Ostinato im Jazz-Stück verleiht dem Rhythmus Tiefe.

Definition


"Das Ostinato" is a musical term referring to a short, repeated rhythmic or melodic pattern that persists throughout a piece or a section, providing a steady foundation or a hypnotic effect, as in the complex ostinato in a jazz composition that adds depth to the rhythm.

Etymology


The word "das Ostinato" comes from the Italian 'ostinato,' meaning 'obstinate' or 'stubborn,' reflecting the persistent repetition of the musical pattern. It was adopted into German musical terminology to describe this unwavering rhythmic or melodic motif. Did you know? Its stubborn nature in music perfectly matches its name!

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"Das Ostinato" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 99 commonly used words.
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