Definition of Ostinato
In music, an ostinato is a motif or phrase that persistently repeats in the same musical voice, frequently in the same pitch.
Both ostinatos and ostinati are accepted English plural forms, the latter reflecting the word's Italian etymology.
Well-known ostinato-based pieces include classical compositions such as Ravel's Boléro and the Carol of the Bells, and popular songs such as John Lennon's "Mind Games" (1973), Donna Summer and Giorgio Moroder's "I Feel Love" (1977), Henry Mancini's theme from Peter Gunn (1959), The Who's "Baba O'Riley" (1971), The Verve's "Bitter Sweet Symphony" (1997), and Flo Rida's "Low" (2007).
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Frequently asked questions
What is Ostinato?
In music, an ostinato is a motif or phrase that persistently repeats in the same musical voice, frequently in the same pitch.