cantus firmus – Definition in music

Definition of the Latin term cantus firmus in music:

the pre-existing melody forming the basis of a polyphonic composition

Language

Latin

Singular

cantus firmus

Plural

cantus firmicanti firmi

Abbreviation

c.f.

Alt. abbreviations

cf.CFC. firmus

Synonyms

cantus prius factusvox principalis

Latin musical terms related to cantus firmus:

cantus – chant, plainsong...