What does repetition in music refer to?

Repetition in music refers to the concept where a particular phrase or motif is restated at the same pitch. This technique is widely used in various musical genres to create familiarity and cohesion within a piece. By utilizing repetition, composers and songwriters can reinforce musical ideas, making them more memorable for the listener. It establishes a sense of structure and can evoke emotional responses.

While changing pitch for variation introduces new elements to the music, it does not exemplify repetition as it alters the original phrase. Restating the entire song is broader and involves more than just a single phrase; it refers to a larger structural repetition. Composing in a similar style focuses on the stylistic elements rather than the specific action of repeating musical phrases. Thus, the most accurate definition of repetition refers directly to the act of repeating a phrase at the same pitch, which enhances the unity and overall impact of the music.