What is a musical motif?

A musical motif is a short musical idea or theme that is repeated throughout a piece of music. It can be a melodic phrase, a rhythmic pattern, or a harmonic progression that helps to unify the composition and create a sense of coherence. Motifs can be used to represent characters, emotions, or ideas in music, and they can be developed and transformed as the piece progresses. Motifs are often used in classical music, film scores, and other forms of music to create a sense of continuity and structure.