tenor clef

noun

, Music.

1. a sign locating middle C on the next to the top line of the staff.

tenor clef

noun

1. the clef that establishes middle C as being on the fourth line of the staff, used for the writing of music for the bassoon, cello, or tenor trombone See also C clef

Word History and Origins

Origin of tenor clef¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

The tenor clef is also frequently used in orchestral works.

From Project Gutenberg

In four instances, the original used a C clef centered on the third space to notate a vocal tenor clef.

From Project Gutenberg

All the other parts are to be read as printed, proper attention being given to the alto and tenor clefs used in the parts of the trombones and violas.

From Project Gutenberg

Exit whistling in the tenor clef; and keeping their hearts up, like a man.

From Project Gutenberg

These have been transcribed using a modern vocal tenor clef.

From Project Gutenberg