Glossary

Vamp
A slang term for improvising an accompaniment, especially in Jazz or Musicals
Variation
The development or modification of a theme, motif or melody whilst still keeping the original recognisable
Vibrato
The slight vibration of pitch produced by a singer or instrumentalist to provide extra tone and expression to his sound
Vif
French for 'lively'
Virtuoso
A musician who is exceptionally skilled both technically and musically
Vocalise
A piece in the style of a song, for either voice or instrument, but without words
Voluntary
An organ solo played at the beginning and/or end of a Church service