Vamp
Definition. A short repeated section, often improvised, used to fill time or provide harmonic foundation.
Detailed Explanation
Vamp is a term from popular and jazz music for a short, repeated section — often just a chord progression or rhythmic pattern — that provides harmonic foundation and may be repeated indefinitely. The term ‘vamp till ready’ instructs the performer to repeat the vamp until cued to move on.
Vamps are essential to song accompaniment. A pianist may vamp on a chord progression while a singer prepares; a band may vamp during a stage entrance or speech; a jazz combo may vamp while a soloist gathers ideas. The vamp is the harmonic and rhythmic backbone that holds the music together while other elements proceed.
In theatre music, vamps are used between numbers, during dialog, or during stage business. The composer indicates the start of a vamp and a point where it can be exited (‘vamp till ready’ for the entry of the next section). Performers must be flexible — vamping for an unpredictable length while waiting for the right cue.
Etymology
English, possibly from a shortening of ‘vampire’ in theatrical slang, or from French avant-pied (‘front part of foot’).
In Practice
Lock in the pattern and stay there. Don’t vary too much; the vamp is foundation. Watch for the cue to exit — don’t miss the transition out.
Notable Examples
- Musical theatre — Common usage (vamp till ready in show music)
- Jazz combos — Standard practice (vamps during solos)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
Τι σημαίνει Vamp στη μουσική;
A short repeated section, often improvised, used to fill time or provide harmonic foundation.
Από πού προέρχεται η λέξη Vamp;
English, possibly from a shortening of ‘vampire’ in theatrical slang, or from French avant-pied (‘front part of foot’).
Πώς εκτελείται το Vamp στην πράξη;
Lock in the pattern and stay there. Don’t vary too much; the vamp is foundation. Watch for the cue to exit — don’t miss the transition out.
Ποιοι μουσικοί όροι σχετίζονται με το Vamp;
Σχετικοί όροι: Ostinato, Ritornello.
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