mellomspill

Mellomspill is a term used in Norwegian to describe a short interlude or transition between the main parts of a performance. In music, it typically refers to an instrumental or vocal piece that provides a bridge, contrast, or atmosphere between movements, scenes, or sections of a longer work. In theatre or dance, it can denote a brief scene, song, or dance inserted between acts or sequences, serving as a linking element rather than a final closing.

Etymology and cognates: The word is formed from mellom (“between”) and spill (“play” or “performance”). It has cognates in other Scandinavian languages, such as Danish mellemspil and Swedish mellanspel, which carry similar meanings.

Contexts and usage: In classical music and opera, mellomspill can be a standalone short piece or a functional interlude within a longer work. In theatre and performance productions, it helps to pace the program and provide variety. In broadcasting, the term can describe a short segues between program blocks or a filler segment. In modern usage, the term is sometimes extended to any brief, non-essential insert within a program or recording.

Relation to related terms: The English equivalents are interlude and intermission, though mellomspill is usually shorter or more integrated than a formal intermission. The concept is common in Norwegian and other Scandinavian performing arts traditions.

See also: Interlude, Intermission, Mellanspel.