passagework

noun

pas·​sage·​work ˈpa-sij-ˌwərk 

: a section of a musical composition characteristically unimportant thematically and consisting especially of ornamental figures

Examples of passagework in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The orchestra showed an impressive ability to build energy over time, and later, triumphant fugal passagework displayed more of the high level of ensemble synchrony in winds and strings that characterizes the orchestra’s present sound. — Lukas Schulze, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Aug. 2022

However, at times that power drained away during rapid passagework, sometimes dragging behind the beat. — Christian Hertzog, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Aug. 2022

His swirling passagework dazzles with virtuosity, and the cadenza is appealingly rhapsodic. — Dallas News, 29 June 2022

Mamora rippled through virtuosic passagework, and there was plenty to enjoy in his shaping of melodies. — Dallas News, 25 June 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for passagework

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork