What is defined as a sequence of musical notes that are perceived as a single entity?

A sequence of musical notes that is perceived as a single entity is referred to as a melody. Melodies are typically characterized by a series of pitches in a specific rhythmic pattern that creates a cohesive musical idea. This can be a tune that is easily recognizable and memorable, often serving as the central theme in a piece of music.

Melody stands out because it consists of individual notes played in succession, creating a line of music that the listener can follow. It is distinct from harmony, which involves multiple pitches played simultaneously to support the melody. Rhythm focuses on the timing of notes, while a chord is a combination of three or more notes played together at the same time, rather than in sequence. Thus, the definition clearly aligns with the concept of melody as the fundamental building block of many musical compositions.