Music names

  1. Cadenza
    • Origin:

      Italian, musical term
    • Description:

      Cadenza takes the popular CADENCE and gives it a more operatic flourish.
  2. Harp
    • Origin:

      Music name
    • Description:

      Feels as if it's missing a syllable.
  3. Cappella
    • Origin:

      Itallian, musical term
    • Description:

      It's usually preceded by the letter 'A'--as in 'a capella'--singing without accompaniment, and probably has never been used as a girl's name, but in this anything-goes naming climate, we're putting it out there as a possibility.
  4. Cello
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      If Viola is a credible girl's name, why not the mellow Cello for a boy.
  5. Rhapsody
    • Origin:

      French, musical term
    • Description:

      Could be seen as extravagantly ecstatic for a baby name, though feel free to rhapsodize about your little girl, whatever her name.
  6. Symphony
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      Name that makes a dramatic musical statement.
  7. Chanson
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "song"
    • Description:

      This musical name would have to be spoken with a French accent--otherwise it would sound like a trendy boy's name, a la BRANSON.
  8. Fantasia
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "imagination"
    • Description:

      One of the more prominent by-products of reality TV, via Disney.
  9. Guitar
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      Toni Morrison, a master of character naming, coined this one for the best friend of hero Milkman Dead in Song of Solomon. Definitely a cool choice, with a twang.
  10. Mandolin
    • Origin:

      French, musical intrument
    • Description:

      Mandolin may seem like an outlandish choice for a name, but since BANJO has been used as a baby name, all the instruments in the band seem to be auditioning for a place on birth certificates. This one comes with a real name nickname, MANDY.
  11. Opera
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      A very distinctive musical choice, but be aware that many people will think you've named your child Oprah.
  12. Piano
    • Origin:

      Music name
    • Description:

      If Banjo can be a name, why not Piano? Could be inspired by prize-winning architect Renzo Piano.
  13. Forte
    • Description:

      Forte is an uncommon masculine name derived from the Italian word meaning "strong" or "powerful." It also has recognition in musical contexts, where "forte" indicates a loud, powerful passage in a composition. This dual meaning gives the name a rich cultural resonance, combining physical strength with artistic expression. As a given name, Forte remains quite rare, making it a distinctive choice that immediately conveys strength and intensity. The name's Italian heritage connects it to a long tradition of names expressing desirable qualities or virtues. Its single-word, two-syllable structure fits contemporary naming trends favoring short, impactful names. For parents drawn to names with clear meanings and musical associations, Forte offers a bold, distinctive option.
  14. Tempo
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "time"
    • Description:

      An offbeat word name referring to the speed of a piece of music.
  15. Timpani
    • Description:

      Timpani is an unusual masculine name derived from the musical instrument of the same name. Timpani are kettle drums used in orchestras and bands, originating from the Italian word 'timpano' (drum). As a given name, Timpani represents a bold choice that reflects musical passion or appreciation. While exceptionally rare as a first name, it follows the pattern of other musical names like Harmony or Melody, though these are typically feminine. The name carries rhythmic associations and might appeal to musicians or families with strong musical connections. The choice of Timpani for a boy is particularly distinctive, as instrument names are more commonly given to girls. Those named Timpani might appreciate the unique quality and artistic connection their name provides, though they may frequently need to explain its origins.

  16. Etude
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "study"
    • Description:

      An original musical possibilty for a lover of Chopin.
  17. Serenade
    • Origin:

      Music name
    • Description:

      Peaceful and melodic, but a bit pretentious.
  18. Music
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      A musical name without much rhythm or harmony.
  19. Drum
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      Cool, musical modern choice, especially as a middle name.
  20. Allegro
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "brisk, sprightly"
    • Description:

      ALLEGRA is a delicate ballet-dancer name; ALLEGRO, which means a fast-paced movement in music, is stronger and more vibrant.