Here's a breakdown:
* Syllable: A single unit of pronunciation in a word. For example, the word "music" has two syllables: "mu" and "sic".
* Note: A single pitch in music.
* Word setting: The way a composer sets a word to music.
Example:
If the word "music" is set syllabically, it might be sung like this:
* mu (one note)
* sic (one note)
Key characteristics of syllabic word setting:
* Simple: It's a straightforward way of setting text to music.
* Clear: Each syllable is distinct and easy to understand.
* Common: It's used frequently in many musical styles, particularly in hymns and folk songs.
Contrast with other word setting techniques:
* Melismatic: One syllable is sung over multiple notes.
* Neumatic: One syllable is sung over a few notes.
Syllabic word setting is often used in conjunction with other techniques, but it's a fundamental building block in musical composition.