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authentic mode

noun

Definition of authentic mode

: a church mode (such as Phrygian or Mixolydian) whose ambitus comprises approximately the octave above the final (see 2final c)
  • An authentic mode is based on its Final or lowest note …
  • —Rupert Hughes,  The Musical Guide,  1903
— compare plagal mode — see church mode illustration

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First Known Use of authentic mode

1740

in the meaning defined above

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