AVID:Identifying Audio Elements

This page serves as a guide to identifying musical instruments, sounds, and techniques found in various audiovisual identities.

Moog synthesizer
Definition= A modular synthesizer commonly seen in logos and idents throughout the 70's and 80's. It is capable of performing a variety of sounds that vary from deep bass sounds to futuristic, otherworldly tones, as well as oscillating, modulating, and highly manipulable sounds. Examples=

Sitar
Definition= A plucked string instrument used in classical Indian music, identifiable through its production of a complex, twangy timbre. Examples=

Tampura
Definition= A long-necked string instrument from India that is used to provide a continuous drone in traditional Indian music. The instrument is usually heard playing for the majority or entirety of the identity sequence. Examples=

Swarmandal
Definition= An Indian string instrument similar to the harp or zither consisting of a set of strings that are plucked or strummed with the fingers. The instrument can be identified through a harmonious drone or a continuous sound (usually at a high pitch in most Indian logos). Examples=

Vibraphone
Definition= A percussion instrument consisting of metal bars arranged like a keyboard and equipped with resonators beneath each bar. The notes would leave a tremolo (trembling) or vibrato (vibrating) effect when performed. Examples=

Arpeggio
Definition= The notes of a chord are played in sequence, rather than simultaneously. It involves playing the individual notes of a chord one after the other, creating a flowing sound in a continuous ascending or descending order. Examples=

Drone
Definition= Droning involves continuously sustaining a single or a few notes for an extended period of time. Examples=

Glissando
Definition= A continuous sliding or gliding effect between musical notes. Examples=

Pizzicato
Definition= A short sound emitted from string instruments where the strings are plucked with the fingers instead of being bowed. Examples=

Sting
Definition= A short musical phrase or sound often used to emphasize a moment's tone. Examples=

Strum
Definition= A sweeping movement of the fingers or a pick across the strings of a musical instrument, producing a series of quick, rhythmic sounds. Examples=

Warbling
Definition= The process of rapidly and repeatedly varying the pitch of a note, creating a wavering or quavering effect in the sound. Examples=