12 Baby Names for Music Buffs
Mozart, Jagger, Pavoratti, Gaga — they all had to learn the basics before becoming music icons. Whether you play an instrument or just have a huge appreciation for music and all that entails, these baby names inspired by musical terminology are unique, (appropriately) musical to the ear and perfect for any mini Beethoven ... or Prince.
Because, seriously, who needs to hear another ultra-trendy name on the playground when they can hear Cadence instead?
Lyric
A little hippie, and a lot unique, Lyric is about as musical as they come.
Based on a Greek word meaning “lyre,” this modern moniker is for the parent who isn’t afraid to try something different. Perhaps, it will even inspire the next Patti Smith or Stevie Nicks.
Aria
Melodic and feminine, Aria is definitely a top choice in names for parents searching for a musically inspired one. While its Italian meaning means “air,” in music, an aria is a solo song accompanied by an instrumental and is often found in operas.
The name has surged in popularity in recent years thanks to the take-no-prisoners Stark sister in “Game of Thrones” (although her name is spelled Arya.)
Melody
Everything old becomes cool again, and Melody is no exception. Meaning “song” in Greek, this total ’80s throwback name is slowly gaining in popularity again. In 2017, Melody was ranked as the 143rd most popular among girl names in the U.S. and will likely keep rising.
So, move over Beckys and Jessicas, Melody is coming through. If you have a favorite melody in mind, check out these baby names that have a timeless song attached to them.
Cadence
If you feel like your baby is constantly moving and grooving in the womb, consider this name that means “rhythm” or “beat” in Latin.
An added bonus? It’s definitely not in the Top 200 girl names (it actually came in at No. 421 in 2017), ensuring that your little one will be the only Cadence at the playground.
Harmony
This sweet name is a Greek word meaning “unity” or “blended.” As unusual as the name may sound, it’s been slowly gaining in popularity the past few years. Perhaps, parents are hoping the peaceful moniker makes up for today’s chaotic and stressed world.
And how awesome would it be if your little Harmony also had perfect pitch?
Chord
Chord (as in a guitar chord) wasn’t a blip on most people’s baby-name radars until the introduction of “Glee” actor Chord Overstreet.
Now, it’s a legit rock ‘n’ roll name for parents to consider for their kid. Just try not to pressure them into becoming the next Eric Clapton.
Reed
In music, a reed is the small piece inside an instrument that vibrates to create a sound.
As a baby name it’s short, sweet and simple — music to any parent’s ears.
Allegra
Do you have a little kicker in utero? Then, we’ve got the name for you. When reading sheet music, allegro means “a quick, lively tempo.”
As the feminine version, Allegra is simultaneously bold and romantic. It’s also the Italian word for “joyous.”
Apollo
In case you missed it, Apollo is the Greek god of music, as well as a hip name option that’s not for the faint of heart.
It’s not a super popular baby name, although it has been rising in ranks ever since Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale bestowed the name on their youngest son. The gaining popularity of Olympic speed skater Apolo Ohno hasn't hurt the name's ranks either (even though he spells his name with only one "l").
Viola
If you’re loving the name Violet, but it’s way too popular for you right now, consider Viola. According to the U.S. Social Security Administration, Viola hasn’t been a Top 1000 name since 2000. A viola is a large string instrument that has a distinctively low and deep sound.
Some famous Viola’s include actress Viola Davis and the heroine of Shakespeare's “Twelfth Night.”
Canon
While Canon is a French name meaning “official of the church,” in musical terms, a canon is a compositional technique where the melody is “imitated by individual parts at regular intervals.”
As a boy's name, it’s still considered pretty outside-the-box; however, that may soon change since popular basketball star Steph Curry and his wife Ayesha announced their new son as Canon Jack Curry in July 2018.
Alto
We admit it — this name is part hip and part “huh?” The Italian meaning of the name is “high” or “elevated,” but an alto in music is the opposite, referring to a low female singing voice.
Whatever you're going for, it's certainly unique enough that any little Alto is almost guaranteed to be the only one in class.