- Definition
A coda is like a special ending part of a song that signals the music is about to finish.
The long, repeating 'na-na-na' section at the end of The Beatles' song 'Hey Jude' is a famous example of a coda.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: A coda is like that extra scene after a movie's credits roll, giving a final, satisfying wrap-up.
Ask your child: How does the music signal that this is the very, very end?
Common mix-up: A student might think a coda is just the music fading out. A coda is a distinct section with its own musical ideas that provides a more definite end to the piece.
Examples
- The triumphant, extended ending of the first movement of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 is a powerful coda.
- A final, fast-paced section at the end of a march to make it sound exciting and finished.
coda is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
