Brass instruments produce sound through sympathetic air vibration with player's lips. Modern instruments use valves to change tubing length for different pitches. Most scholars define brass by sound production, not material
E major contains pitches E, F♯, G♯, A, B, C♯, and D♯. Key signature has four sharps. Relative minor is C-sharp minor, parallel minor is E minor. Enharmonic equivalent F-flat major has six flats
Dynamics indicate variations in loudness between notes or phrases. Two basic markings: p (soft) and f (loud). Dynamic markings are relative and require performer interpretation
Overture emerged as instrumental introduction to ballet, opera, or oratorio in 17th century. French overture first appeared in Lully's court ballets with dotted rhythm and fugato style. Italian overture developed in 1680s, featuring fast-slow-fast movement structure
Tempo refers to the speed of a composition, measured in beats per minute (BPM). Tempo is typically indicated in Italian terms like "Allegro" or "Andante". Tempo can be separated from articulation and meter
Greek word "symphōnia" meant harmonious notes in music. Term "symphonia" referred to various musical instruments in Middle Ages. Early symphonies were instrumental pieces and opera introductions. Italian opera overture format influenced early symphony development