What does the term 'sequence' refer to in music?

The term 'sequence' in music specifically refers to the restatement of a passage at a different pitch within the same voice. This technique involves taking a melodic or harmonic idea and moving it up or down in pitch while maintaining its original rhythmic and structural characteristics. Sequences are prevalent in various musical forms and serve to develop ideas, create interest, and enhance the overall texture of a piece.

In practical application, a composer or performer might play a melodic line and then immediately repeat that line at a higher or lower pitch, creating a sense of continuity and progression within the music. This is distinct from simply repeating a note, introducing a new motif, or modifying dynamics, as those elements do not embody the concept of transposing a passage while retaining its identity.