Arts >> Music >> Music Basics

What are the six concepts of music?

Pitch

The relative position of a sound on the musical scale. Pitches are determined by the frequency of sound waves, measured in hertz (Hz). The higher the frequency, the higher the pitch.

Duration

The length of time a sound lasts. Durations are measured in seconds or beats. A beat is a basic unit of time in music, and is typically equal to one-quarter of a second.

Loudness

The perceived strength or intensity of a sound. Loudness is measured in decibels (dB). The louder the sound, the higher the decibel level.

Timbre

The unique character or quality of a sound. Timbre is determined by the harmonic structure of a sound, which is the combination of different frequencies present.

Texture

The way in which the different components of a musical piece are combined. Texture can be described as thick or thin, dense or sparse, smooth or rough.

Form

The overall structure of a musical piece. Form is determined by the arrangement of the different sections of a piece, such as the introduction, verse, chorus, and bridge.

Music Basics

Related Categories