What is meant by the term "ostinato" in music?

The term "ostinato" refers to a repeated rhythmic or melodic pattern in music. This concept is prominent in various genres and styles, where a particular phrase is persistently played, setting a foundation for other musical elements to evolve over it. The use of an ostinato can create an engaging sense of movement and coherence throughout a piece, allowing for variation and improvisation on top of a stable base.

In contrast to the other terms, a decorative melody typically refers to embellishments added to a main theme, rather than a foundational repetitive structure. Background harmony indicates a supporting chordal texture rather than a distinct repeating pattern, while a form of musical composition focuses on the overall structure of a piece rather than the specific repetitive nature associated with an ostinato. Thus, identifying ostinato as a repeated rhythmic or melodic pattern accurately captures its essential role and usage in music.