Definition

In music, a term that refers to a section where musical phrases overlap or are played in quick succession, often creating a climactic effect, especially in a fugue or final section of a piece.

Example

The composer used a stretto in the final movement to heighten the excitement of the performance.

Conversation

Did you hear the final section of that symphony last night?

Yeah, it was incredible! The stretto really added so much energy.

I know, right? It felt like everything was building up to that moment.

Absolutely! The way they accelerated the tempo was just perfect.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Stretto** → It is derived from the Italian word 'stretto', which means narrow or tight. The term is used in music to indicate a passage that is played in a quickened tempo or in a more compact manner. The word originates from the Latin 'strictus', meaning drawn tight or narrow.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stretto' as something that is 'tight' or 'narrow' — this helps you remember that it refers to a quickened or compact musical passage.

Visually Confused Words