pedal point

American  

noun

Music.

1. a tone sustained by one part, usually the bass, while other parts progress without reference to it.

2. a passage containing it.

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pedal point British  

/ ˈpɛdəl /

noun

1. Often shortened to: pedal.  music a sustained bass note, over which the other parts move bringing about changing harmonies

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Etymology

Origin of pedal point

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Soon, though, a series of downward-sliding melodies in the violins begins to tug the music away; the pedal point returns, but feels slightly less fixed.

From New York Times • Jun. 29, 2023

Even the pedal point of a Bach cantata has a drone going through it.

From New York Times • May 9, 2011

Elsewhere the spirit of the time is evoked in wistful, gently melodic passages, played over a pedal point, or repeating bass note.

From New York Times • Aug. 8, 2010

Who else would write to her 18-year-old son, "Adieu, my darling, I kiss you tenderly with a pedal point to be sustained until the next kiss"?

From Time Magazine Archive

Ground bass, or pedal point, and singing in parts, as well as bands of harpers and pipers, were in vogue in Ireland before the coming of the English.

From The Glories of Ireland by Lennox, P. J.