What is an 'Ostinato'?

An ostinato is defined as a short repeated motif or phrase that is often found in the bass line of a piece of music. This term comes from the Italian word for 'stubborn,' reflecting the persistence of the repeated musical figure throughout the composition. Ostinatos can create a sense of structure and continuity, providing a foundation for other musical elements to build upon. They can be used in various musical styles, from classical to contemporary genres, and serve to anchor melodies and harmonies above them.

For example, in a piece of music where a simple bass line repeats, other instruments or voices may elaborate upon this foundation with variations or counter-melodies, enhancing the overall texture of the music. This concept is fundamental in understanding various compositional techniques and can also aid in improvisation or arranging music.