Topmusicanswers
What is an example of melisma?
When a vocalist sings different notes over one syllable it is called melisma, it is very easy to identify. One great example of melismatic singing is this scene from the classic sci-fi movie The Fifth Element.
What does melisma mean in music?
1 : a group of notes or tones sung on one syllable in plainsong. 2 : melodic embellishment. 3 : cadenza.
What is melisma used for?
However, the term melisma may be used to describe music of any genre, including baroque singing, opera, and later gospel. Within the tradition of Religious Jewish music, melisma is still commonly used in the chanting of Torah, readings from the Prophets, and in the body of a service.
