Refrain

Definition

A refrain is a repeated line or phrase, often found in music and poetry, that serves to unify a piece and emphasize its main theme. In musical contexts, it provides a familiar anchor for the listener, creating a sense of cohesion and expectation throughout the composition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Refrains can appear in various forms of music, including popular songs, classical compositions, and folk music, providing a recognizable motif.
2. In sonata form, while refrains are not as explicitly defined as in vocal music, thematic material can serve a similar purpose by reappearing in different sections.
3. In rondo form, the refrain is typically the recurring theme (often labeled as 'A'), which alternates with contrasting sections, creating a playful structure.
4. Refrains help to establish emotional resonance and are often used strategically to enhance the narrative of the piece.
5. The use of refrains can create an anticipatory effect, where listeners expect the return of familiar material, reinforcing their engagement with the music.

Review Questions

• How does the use of a refrain enhance the listener's experience in a musical composition?
  • A refrain enhances the listener's experience by providing familiar material that creates a sense of unity and cohesion throughout the piece. This repetition allows listeners to anticipate when they will hear familiar lines or phrases again, making them feel more connected to the music. Additionally, it helps emphasize key themes or messages within the composition, engaging listeners emotionally and intellectually.
• Compare and contrast the roles of refrains in both sonata form and rondo form.
  • In sonata form, refrains may not be explicitly labeled but can be represented by recurring thematic material throughout the exposition, development, and recapitulation. In contrast, rondo form prominently features a clear refrain that acts as a recurring theme interspersed with contrasting sections. While both forms utilize repetition to create cohesion, rondo form does so more overtly with distinct alternating sections that highlight the refrain.
• Evaluate the impact of refrains on the overall structure and emotional impact of a musical piece.
  • Refrains significantly impact both the structure and emotional dynamics of a musical piece by introducing an element of predictability that resonates with listeners. They reinforce key themes and evoke specific emotional responses each time they recur. By framing contrasting material around these familiar sections, composers can build tension and release within their work. This not only enhances engagement but also allows for deeper storytelling through music as listeners develop an attachment to the repeated motifs.

Related terms

verse: A verse is a section of a song or poem that contains a specific set of lyrics, often differing from one repetition to another, and typically leads into the refrain.

chorus: The chorus is a repeated section of a song that usually features the main message or theme, similar to a refrain but often with more musical variation and prominence.

strophic form:

Strophic form is a musical structure where multiple verses are sung to the same melody, often using refrains to reinforce the overall theme.