Syllabic

Definition

Vocal music where each syllable is given one note only. Compare melismatic.

Musical example of syllabic; one note to each syllable

Examples

Watch the words of this song as you listen. Each syllable has only one note, therefore the setting is syllabic.

This hymn is syllabic in the verse (one note to each syllable) and melismatic in the chorus – there are many notes to the syllable 'Glo' in Gloria!

Related concepts

• Melismatic (N5)