Theory of Music Grade 4

Lesson 17 Clefs Stringed Instruments Italian Terms

Clefs
There are many clefs apart from the treble and bass clefs. One of these is the alto clef.

It is designed to show that the third line is middle C.

Clefs
Music for the Viola is written in the alto clef. This is because they play notes around middle C and by writing their music in the alto clef, it takes away the need for lots of leger lines.

When the viola has to play higher, it may use the treble clef.

Clefs
Rewrite this phrase at the same pitch using the alto clef.

Strings Section of the Orchestra

Strings Section of the Orchestra

Violin Viola Cello (violoncello) Double Bass (contrabass)

Strings Section of the Orchestra

All are made of wood. Strings made of gut or metal. Pegs at the top are used for tuning. The strings are supported by a bridge. Fingers press strings on the fingerboard. Pitch is changed by altering the length of the strings. The right hand bows. Bows are made of horse hair.

Violin String Tuning

Viola String Tuning

Cello String Tuning

Double Bass String Tuning

This must be memorized!

Pizzicato and Arco

Pizzicato means to pluck the strings with your fingers. Arco means to play with the bow.

Tremelo
Bowing back and forth very rapidly to produce a shimmery or wavering effect.

Sul Ponticello and Sul Tasto

Sul ponticello to play with the bow on or near the bridge. Sul tasto means to play with the bow on or near the finger board.

Other Terms
Cantando in a singing style Tenuto held Piacevole pleasant and agreeable Portamento a smooth gliding from one note to another Dolento & Doloroso sadly and plaintive Sotto Voce softly, in an undertone Giocoso gay and merry Grazioso gracefully Assai very Quasi as if as it were Scherzando playfully Subito suddenly Non Troppo not too much

Revision : Baroque Suite

Revision : Baroque Ornaments

Homework
Complete lesson 17 and memorize the following: