noun
- plural of ostinato; repeated musical phrases or rhythmic patterns that persist throughout a composition or section
Usage: music theory
Examples
- The composer used several ostinatos to create a hypnotic effect in the piece.
- Jazz musicians often build solos over simple ostinatos in the bass line.
- The string section played interlocking ostinatos while the melody soared above.
- Minimalist composers frequently employ ostinatos as structural elements.
- The drummer maintained steady ostinatos throughout the entire song.
- Classical ostinatos can be found in works by Bach and other Baroque composers.