What is an ostinato?

An ostinato is best described as a repeated musical phrase or rhythm. This term is fundamental in music composition and performance, as it provides a persistent element that can support a melody or serve as a foundational backdrop for various musical ideas. Ostinatos can be found in various musical genres and styles, from classical to contemporary, and they contribute to the cohesiveness and structure of a piece by creating a consistent motif that listeners can latch onto.

The other choices do not accurately depict what an ostinato is. A form of lyrical composition refers to structured songwriting rather than a specific musical phrase or rhythm. A type of musical instrument entails physical objects used to produce sound, which is not related to the concept of repetition in music. Finally, a technique for changing tempo indicates a focus on time or speed in performance but does not align with the definition of an ostinato, which is centered around repetition rather than alteration.