canto fermo


canto fermo

(ˈkæntəʊ ˈfɜːməʊ) or

cantus firmus

n1. (Classical Music) a melody that is the basis to which other parts are added in polyphonic music2. (Ecclesiastical Terms) the traditional plainchant as prescribed by use and regulation in the Christian Church[Italian, from Medieval Latin, literally: fixed song]