1. plural of canzona; instrumental musical compositions of the 16th and 17th centuries, typically polyphonic and derived from vocal chansons
Usage: music history; classical music

Examples

• The composer wrote several canzonas for brass ensemble.
• Renaissance canzonas were often performed during church services.
• These canzonas demonstrate the transition from vocal to instrumental music.
• The collection includes canzonas by Giovanni Gabrieli.
• Musicians studied the intricate counterpoint in these canzonas.
• The festival featured performances of 16th-century canzonas.