Text setting in music refers to how melodies are arranged to fit lyrics. There are two main types of text setting:
- **Syllabic**: Each syllable of text corresponds to a single note. This makes the lyric's meaning clearer. Gregorian chants are an example of syllabic text setting.
- **Melismatic**: Multiple notes are sung for a single syllable of text. This adds flourish and ornamentation. Songs like "Ave Maria" use melismatic text setting.
In general, syllabic text settings are simpler and clearer, while melismatic settings are more elaborate and lyrical. The choice of text setting depends on the intent of the composer and style of music.
See melismatic, syllabic.
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