Breve

A breve is a musical note indicating a duration equal to two whole notes or four half notes. It is visually represented as a hollow oval with two vertical lines or stems extending from opposite sides. This note value is less common than others and primarily used in early music compositions and specific contemporary contexts. The breve's significance lies in its ability to represent comparatively long durations within musical scores, extending beyond the scope of the whole note. It is considered a comparatively long note, often related to older forms of notation.

Breve meaning with examples

• In a medieval manuscript, the composer used breves to denote the sustained drone notes in the chant, allowing for longer phrases.
• The conductor signaled for a four-beat count during a passage with breves, enabling the orchestra to maintain the extended duration effectively.
• The organist skillfully held the final chord of the piece using breves to create a sense of peace and a majestic end.
• The composer wanted to emphasize the duration by writing the passage with many breves, as it gave each sound its proper duration.
• The vocal soloist managed their breath control and held out several breves in the dramatic climax of the aria, creating dramatic tension.