‖ motivo Mus.
(moˈtivo)
[It.: see motive n. Cf. motif.]
The leading subject of an air, etc.; a subject or theme out of which a movement is developed. Also (see quot. 1876).
| 1789 Burney Hist. Mus. IV. 145 It is a graceful and pleasing air, the motivo of which has been often used in the present century. 1811 Busby Dict. Mus. (ed. 3). 1875 Ouseley Mus. Form ix. 48 Variations may be constructed..upon an original theme or motivo. 1876 Stainer & Barrett Dict. Mus. Terms, Motivo (It.)..(1) The sort of movement indicated by the opening notes of a sentence. (2) A subject proposed for development. |