obbligato
/ˌɑblɪˈɡɑtoʊ/
noun
- An essential musical accompaniment or solo part, usually played by a single instrument, that is prominent and cannot be left out.
- The composer wrote a flute obbligato that wove in and out of the vocal line.
- The violin obbligato added a beautiful, soaring melody to the choir's hymn.
- In the concerto, the pianist performed a delicate obbligato while the orchestra played softly.
adjective
- Describing a musical part that is essential and cannot be omitted.
- The obbligato cello part was so important that the piece sounded empty without it.
- The conductor insisted on keeping the obbligato trumpet line even though it was difficult.
- She practiced the obbligato section for hours to get every note perfect.