Song Structure and Songwriting Flashcards

Grade 7 · Music · Flashcards

Essential terms for understanding how songs are structured and the techniques songwriters use to craft memorable music.

Flashcards

Verse: Song section that tells the story; lyrics change each time but the melody stays the same
Chorus: The repeated main section of a song; same lyrics and melody each time; contains the hook
Bridge: A contrasting section providing new melody, harmony, or perspective; typically appears once before the final chorus
Hook: The catchiest, most memorable phrase in a song — usually the title — designed to stick in the listener's memory
Intro: The opening section that sets the mood and establishes the musical feel before the first verse
Outro: The closing section that brings the song to an end; may fade out or resolve with a final statement
Pre-chorus: An optional section between the verse and chorus that builds anticipation and tension before the chorus drops
Melody: The sequence of musical pitches forming the main tune — the part of a song you sing or hum
Chord progression: A sequence of chords played in order; forms the harmonic backbone and emotional color of a song
Dynamics: Variations in volume (loudness and softness) used to create tension, contrast, and emotional impact
ABABCB structure: A common song form: Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus-Bridge-Chorus; one of the most popular structures in pop music
AABA structure: Classic song form: Verse-Verse-Bridge-Verse; common in jazz standards and early pop songs
Rhyme scheme: The pattern of rhyming lines in song lyrics, often creating a satisfying and memorable flow (e.g., AABB or ABAB)