The main musical phrase, often referred to as the melody, is the central theme of a piece of music. It is typically the most recognizable part, characterized by a series of notes that create a distinct tune. This melody serves as the foundation for the composition, around which harmonies and other musical elements are built. In many genres, the melody is what listeners remember and connect with emotionally.
The "A" melody
One main melody with simple accompaniment is called a "homophonic texture." In this musical structure, the primary focus is on the melody, while the accompaniment supports it harmonically. This texture is commonly found in various musical genres, including pop, classical, and folk music, allowing the melody to stand out clearly.
The melody is what most people call the "music." In modern music, the melody refers to the main idea, usually the lyrics, of a piece of music. A harmony, typically background vocals and/or instrumentation, is usually added to a melody.
They're not the same - the vocal melody is the main voice in a song and can be completed by other voices (usually fainter) and the melody is the main tune and can be completed by other instruments. The vocal melody can follow the same notes as the melody or not. :)
The term for a second melody that accompanies the main melody in a musical composition is called a "counterpoint."
A riff is a short, repetitive musical phrase that is often used as a foundation for a song, while a melody is a series of notes that form the main theme of a song and is usually more complex and varied.
The "A" melody
A guitar riff is a repeated musical phrase that forms the main melody of a song, while a guitar lick is a short, improvised phrase used to embellish the music.
Cantus firmus.
it means the main or mostly used part in a song or the main theme
The melody is what most people call the "music." In modern music, the melody refers to the main idea, usually the lyrics, of a piece of music. A harmony, typically background vocals and/or instrumentation, is usually added to a melody.
A descant is an ornamental melody that has higher pitch level than the main melody while an ostinato is a motif or phrase that is played repeatedly throughout a section.
They're not the same - the vocal melody is the main voice in a song and can be completed by other voices (usually fainter) and the melody is the main tune and can be completed by other instruments. The vocal melody can follow the same notes as the melody or not. :)
"Expressing a musical thought" - Hmm! I could go with a rhythmically organized sequence of single tones so related to one another as to make up a particular phrase or idea but I think "thought" is taking it too far. Basically a melody is a pleasing succession or arrangement of sounds, a tune.
A descant in music is a higher melody that is sung or played along with the main melody. It is typically used to add richness and depth to a musical composition, often creating harmonies and enhancing the overall sound of the piece.
The main melody or theme of the tune, usually is played in and out, before and after the solos.