plainsong

[pleyn-sawng, -song]

plainsong Definition

a simple and unaccompanied form of church music that is sung in unison.

Using plainsong: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plainsong" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The choir sang plainsong during the service.

  • Example

    The monks chanted plainsong in the chapel.

  • Example

    The composer was inspired by plainsong melodies.

plainsong Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for plainsong

Phrases with plainsong

  • a type of plainsong named after Pope Gregory I, characterized by a single melody line and sung in unison

    Example

    The choir performed Gregorian plainsong during the Easter service.

  • a type of plainsong named after Saint Ambrose, characterized by a more complex melody line and sung in unison

    Example

    The choir director chose to perform Ambrosian plainsong for the Christmas service.

  • a type of plainsong that includes multiple melody lines sung in harmony

    Example

    The composer arranged the plainsong into a polyphonic piece for the concert.

Origins of plainsong

from Old French 'plain' meaning 'simple' and 'song'

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Summary: plainsong in Brief

Plainsong [pleyn-sawng, -song] is a simple and unaccompanied form of church music sung in unison. It is often used during religious services and can be traced back to medieval times. Plainsong includes variations such as Gregorian and Ambrosian plainsong, as well as polyphonic plainsong with multiple melody lines.