Music A-Level
Aria
What Aria means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Aria
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Aria in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Provides a moment of emotional reflection or lyrical expression for a solo character, highly structured with melismatic passages, regular metre and full orchestral accompaniment.
Topics that use Aria
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Antecedent phrase
- Antiphonal texture
- Articulation
- Balanced phrases
- Bass suspension
- Basso continuo
- Binary form
- Cadential 6/4
Using Aria in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Music questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Music A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge