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Obbligato
01
a musical part that is integral to a piece of music and cannot be omitted
What is an "obbligato"?
An obbligato is a key musical part that must be performed as written, without alteration. It is an important and often intricate line that complements the main melody, adding richness and depth to the piece. This part is essential to the composition and plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall texture of the music.
02
a persistent but subordinate motif
Example
The guitarist performed the obbligato with finesse and sensitivity, enhancing the singer's ballad with intricate embellishments and harmonies.
The flute's obbligato danced above the choir, adding a celestial touch to the sacred anthem.
The cellist's obbligato wove through the orchestral texture, adding depth and emotion to the symphonic movement.
The clarinet's obbligato soared above the strings, evoking the longing and yearning expressed in the composer's melody.
In the concerto, the pianist's obbligato provided a counterpoint to the orchestra's majestic theme, creating a dialogue between soloist and ensemble.
