what is a motive in music
Play (helpÂ·info). In music, a motif (pronunciation) (helpÂ·info) or motive is a short musical idea, a salient recurring figure, musical fragment or succession of notes that has some special importance in or is characteristic of a composition : The motive is the smallest structural unit possessing thematic identity.ny motif may be used to construct complete melodies, themes and pieces. Musical development uses a distinct musical figure that is subsequently altered, repeated, or sequenced throughout a piece or section of a piece of music, guaranteeing its unity.