Definitions:

1. A part of a score that must be performed without change or omission. NOUN
   • The violin's obligato melody danced effortlessly above the orchestral accompaniment.
2. A persistent, recurring and often essential musical line or accompaniment that must be played or performed exactly as written. NOUN
   • The obligato line was so expressive, it nearly overshadowed the vocals.
3. A prominent instrumental part in a musical composition that is essential and must be performed, often accompanying a vocal line or main melody with its own distinct musical line. NOUN
   • The soprano aria features a beautiful oboe obligato.

Synonyms:

• essential counter-melody
• Featured instrumental part
• obbligato

NearBy Words:

• obligatorily
• obligatory