Agogic meaning

Agogic refers to the emphasis or accentuation placed on a particular note in music, with a focus on timing rather than volume or pitch.


Agogic definitions

Word backwards cigoga
Part of speech Agogic is an adjective.
Syllabic division a-go-gic
Plural The plural of the word "agogic" is "agogics."
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) a,o,i
Consonants (2) g,c

Agogic, in music, refers to a subtle emphasis or accentuation on a specific note or series of notes within a musical composition. This term is often used to describe the natural stress or accent that occurs in music to create a sense of dynamic movement and expression.

Origin of Agogic

The term "agogic" comes from the Greek word "agogos," meaning leading or conducting. In the context of music, agogic accents are not indicated by traditional musical notation symbols but are instead felt and interpreted by the performer or conductor. This allows for a more expressive and flexible approach to rhythm and accentuation within a piece of music.

Agogic Accents in Performance

Agogic accents can be used to add depth and emotion to a musical performance. By subtly emphasizing certain notes or beats, a performer can bring out the underlying pulse of the music and create a sense of drama or tension. These accents are often used to highlight important moments in a piece or to add a sense of unpredictability and spontaneity.

Agogic in Different Musical Styles

While agogic accents are commonly used in classical music, they can also be found in other musical styles such as jazz, blues, and folk music. In jazz, for example, musicians often use agogic accents to add swing and groove to their performances, creating a sense of forward momentum and rhythmic intensity.

Overall, agogic accents play a crucial role in shaping the emotional and expressive qualities of music. By allowing performers to subtly manipulate rhythm and accentuation, agogic enhances the overall musical experience and adds a layer of depth and nuance to a composition.


Agogic Examples

  1. The agogic accent in music can help emphasize certain beats.
  2. She listened with an agogic pause, waiting for the climactic moment in the story.
  3. The conductor used agogic markings to indicate how the tempo should fluctuate.
  4. The agogic nature of the performance drew in the audience, capturing their attention.
  5. His agogic movements on stage added drama and intensity to the dance routine.
  6. The singer's agogic phrasing left the audience hanging on every word.
  7. The agogic changes in the painting created a sense of movement and energy.
  8. She played the piano with agogic touches, adding depth and emotion to the music.
  9. The actor's agogic timing in the delivery of his lines kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
  10. The agogic shifts in the narrative structure surprised and delighted readers.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 11/04/2024 - 22:27:59