Bar form is a musical structure that is commonly used in classical music, folk music, and popular music. It is a three-part structure that consists of an A section, followed by a contrasting B section, and then a return to the A section. This article will provide an in-depth look at the definition and meaning of bar form.
Definitions
Bar form is a musical structure that is characterized by a three-part structure. The first section is usually eight bars long and is called the A section. The second section is usually eight bars long as well and is called the B section. The final section is a repeat of the A section, and it is also eight bars long. The structure is often referred to as AAB form.
Origin
The origin of bar form can be traced back to the 17th century. It was first used in the music of the German Baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach. The structure was used extensively in his keyboard works, such as the Goldberg Variations and the Well-Tempered Clavier.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, bar form is defined as “a musical form consisting of three sections, the first and third of which are identical in melody and rhythm, while the second section provides a contrast.”
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines bar form as “a musical form in which a melody is repeated in the first and third sections and a contrasting melody is presented in the second section.”
Associations
Bar form is often associated with classical music, but it is also used in other genres such as folk music and popular music. It is a simple and effective structure that can be used to create a catchy melody.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bar form include AAB form, ternary form, and three-part form.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of bar form, but it can be contrasted with other musical forms such as binary form and rondo form.
The same root words
There are no direct root words associated with bar form, but it is related to the terms bar, measure, and phrase, which are all used in music notation.
Example Sentences
- The composer used bar form to create a simple and memorable melody.
- The folk song followed a traditional AAB form.
- The pop song had a catchy chorus that was repeated in the A sections of the bar form.