Vocabulaire IELTS courant - music history

A suite is similar to a sonata in the sense that it is a musical performance with several parts, however in a sonata the parts are typically connected whereas in a suite, they are only loosely connected.

A composer is a person who writes and performs music for a job. Bach, Beethoven and Mozart are all famous composers.

A concerto is a classical music composition that consists of a full orchestra but only highlights the sounds of one instrument. It is often for orchestras to have a soloist, or someone who plays a piece by themselves against the full sounds of the orchestra, but in a concerto, one instrument is highlighted or showcased throughout the entire performance.

An ensemble is a group of musicians, dancers or actors that work together. The Beatles were an ensemble, as were Spice Girls.

Harmony is the sound of things that go well together. If a band doesn’t have harmony, the won’t be successful. Harmony is also compatibility in opinion and attraction. Two examples for harmony:

• They won the singing contest because they had the best harmony.
• When the employees are in harmony it makes life easier for the managers.

An instrument is a device that that requires skill for proper use, but is normally referring to something that makes music. Pianos, flutes and violins are all instruments.

In today’s environment of global communication and mass internet usage, reading is an imperative skill to communicate and thrive and has become instrumental to one’s success in today's competitive world.

She was instrumental in bringing about the prison reform act.

The informant’s tip-off was instrumental in the arrest of the serial killer.

Music genres include Christmas Pop, Rock, Classical, Instrumental, Jazz and Smooth.

In a theater context, the term "orchestra" refers to the seating area located on the main floor, closest to the stage. It is typically the section with the best view and acoustics, making it one of the most desirable and often the most expensive seating options in a theater. The name "orchestra" originates from ancient Greek theater, where it described the area in front of the stage where the chorus performed.

• There are only three orchestra seats left. We better get them soon.

• How much are orchestra seats?

• All orchestra tickets are sold out.

• The only orchestra seat still available left has partially obstructed views.

An orchestra is a large group of musicians who play together on various instruments, which can include strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. 

• Jonathan plays violin in the school orchestra.

• What's the name of the piece that the orchestra is playing?

• The orchestra played the Beethoven overture beautifully.

• The orchestra was conducted by the young and talented Romanian conductor Gabriel Bebeșelea.

A soloist is a musician that performs solo, or on their own. Beyonce, Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Hendrix are all soloists because they perform on their own, not in a group.

A sonata is a musical performance that is usually broken into 3-4 parts. It can be done with any instrument, or a combination of instruments.