musical composition

USAGE SUMMARY

"musical composition" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a piece of music, usually one written for specific instruments or a larger musical group. For example: "This work is a musical composition for a small orchestra of six musicians."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Initially drawn to literature as much as music, he likened musical composition to a poetic activity.

The New York Times - Arts

3) a) a short musical composition of words and music.

Huffington Post

There are comprehensive exhibits on musical composition and the history of music.

Huffington Post

Nor is this true only in musical composition.

The New Yorker

"A veritable explosion of musical composition," Mr. Sachs states.

The New York Times - Arts

When White reads, the book becomes a musical composition.

The New Yorker

"It's like a musical composition and a musician, an interpretation.

The New Yorker

A musical composition, however, takes much longer, sometimes over an hour.

The New York Times - Arts

He was taking courses in musical composition with the composer Irving Fine.

The New Yorker

In 2003, Mira Calix premiered her groundbreaking musical composition Nunu in London.

The Guardian - Arts

Still, "Apocalypse" essentially remained a musical composition with some action grafted onto it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing classical or formal music, use "musical composition" to convey a sense of artistic intent and structure. For example, "Beethoven's "musical composition" is a masterpiece of the Classical period."

Common error

Avoid using "musical composition" in very casual settings; simpler terms like "song" or "tune" are often more appropriate. Saying "I love this musical composition" when referring to a pop song might sound overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "musical composition" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It denotes a specific, structured piece of music, often implying a level of complexity and artistic intent. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "musical composition" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase referring to a structured piece of music. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across various contexts, from formal analysis to casual discussion. While "musical composition" is most prevalent in news media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, it's important to consider the register and context when choosing between it and simpler alternatives like "song" or "piece of music". Understanding its nuances helps ensure clear and appropriate communication about music.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

musical work

Focuses on the piece of music as a creative product.

composition

A shorter, more general term for a structured arrangement of elements, including music.

piece of music

A common and straightforward alternative.

musical piece

Similar to 'piece of music' but slightly more formal.

musical creation

Emphasizes the act of creating the music.

score

Refers to the written notation of a musical composition.

musical arrangement

Highlights the way the music is organized.

sonic creation

Broader term that includes music and other sound-based artworks.

instrumental work

Specifies that the composition is primarily for instruments.

opus

A formal term for a musical work, often numbered.

FAQs

How can I use "musical composition" in a sentence?

You can say something like, "The professor analyzed the "musical composition" for its use of counterpoint" or "Her latest "musical composition" blends jazz and classical elements".

What's a simpler way to say "musical composition"?

Depending on the context, you could use "piece of music", "song", or simply "composition".

Is there a difference between "musical composition" and "song"?

"Musical composition" generally refers to a more structured and often instrumental piece, while "song" typically implies a vocal piece with lyrics.

What are some other terms related to "musical composition"?

Related terms include "score", "opus", and "arrangement", each emphasizing different aspects of the musical work.