retrograde motion

Meaning of Retrograde Motion in Music

Retrograde motion in music refers to a melodic line that is the reverse of a previously or simultaneously stated line. It involves presenting a melody in backward motion, moving from the last note to the first ) An exact retrograde includes both the pitches and rhythms in reverse. In some cases, composers may choose to subject only the pitches or only the rhythms to retrograde. In twelve-tone music, the reversal of pitch classes, regardless of the melodic contour created by their registral placement, is considered a retrograde ).

It's important to note that retrograde motion in music is different from retrograde motion in astronomy or astrology. In astronomy, retrograde motion refers to the apparent change in the movement of a planet through the sky, where it appears to move east-to-west instead of its usual west-to-east motion. In astrology, retrograde motion is believed to have certain meanings and influences on human lives, but it is not directly related to the musical concept of retrograde motion.

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