Is a cadenza the same as a solo?

Not exactly. A solo can be any piece for one performer, but a cadenza is a special solo passage.

Is cadenza used only in classical music?

Mostly, yes. It is mainly used in classical music, especially in concertos and operas.

Can a cadenza be improvised?

Yes. Traditionally, performers often improvised the cadenza, though many are now written down.

← Dictionary

cadenza

/kəˈden.zə/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A cadenza is a long, showy solo passage in a piece of music, usually near the end. The performer often plays it with little or no accompaniment.

The pianist played a brilliant cadenza.
The cadenza showed off her skill.
The orchestra stopped for the solo cadenza.

Adinary Nuance

A cadenza is not the same as a solo. A solo is any passage or piece played by one performer, while a cadenza is usually a special, improvised, or highly decorated solo moment near the end of a classical piece. Writers choose cadenza when they want to suggest musical display and freedom.

In other languages

Vietnamese: đoạn ngẫu hứng
Spanish: cadenza
Chinese: 华彩乐段
Japanese: カデンツァ
Korean: 카덴차

Etymology

Cadenza came into English from Italian in the 18th century. It comes from a word meaning 'rhythm' or 'a pause in music.'

Common phrases

vocal cadenzapiano cadenzaa dramatic cadenza

Synonyms

solo solo passage ornamented passage

Related words

concerto cadence improvisation movement

Frequently asked questions

Is a cadenza the same as a solo?: Not exactly. A solo can be any piece for one performer, but a cadenza is a special solo passage.
Is cadenza used only in classical music?: Mostly, yes. It is mainly used in classical music, especially in concertos and operas.
Can a cadenza be improvised?: Yes. Traditionally, performers often improvised the cadenza, though many are now written down.