FUGUE Meaning and
Definition
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A fugue is a musical composition or form that originated in the Baroque era and is characterized by its contrapuntal and polyphonic structure. It serves as a complex, highly organized piece of music, typically for keyboard instruments, where a single melodic theme is presented and then developed through intricate interweaving of different voices or parts. These additional voices, known as countersubjects, simultaneously and independently play variations of the original theme, creating a complex web of harmonies and melodies.
The fugue is typically divided into several sections, including the exposition, in which the main theme is presented in each voice, and subsequent episodes, where the theme is varied or serves as a transitional passage. The various voices engage in imitative counterpoint throughout the composition, imitating each other's phrases or themes in a disciplined and controlled manner. This creates a continuous and ever-changing texture of polyphony that demands great skill and precision from the composer and performer.
The term "fugue" also extends beyond the realm of music and has been used metaphorically to describe a state of confusion or disorientation. In this sense, it suggests a psychological condition where a person appears to be detached from reality or experiences identity disturbances. This usage stems from the association of a fugue with moments of dissonance and the highly intricate and intertwining nature of the musical form.
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Flight, ambulatory automatism; a wandering away from home under an hysterical impulsion, often with loss of memory of one's name, residence, occupation, etc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In music, a piece in which the parts follow or chase each other with certain repetitions at intervals.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for FUGUE *
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Other Common Misspellings for FUGUE
Etymology of FUGUE
The word "fugue" has its roots in Latin, derived from the verb "fugere", which means "to flee" or "to run away". In musical terminology, it refers to the technique of composing a piece of music in which a theme is introduced and then imitated by different voices or instruments. The concept of a musical fugue developed during the Baroque period, and the term "fugue" itself was first used in this musical context in the early 17th century.
Similar spelling words for FUGUE
- fug,
- fukui,
- fudge,
- fuze,
- fuego,
- fuzee,
- Fuquay,
- forge,
- Fugua,
- fuggy,
- fig,
- fusee,
- fugu,
- Fuqua,
- fog,
- figure,
- fuse.
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