Technique

Tone

The particular quality or character of a sound.

In plain English

Tone is why the same note sounds different on a piano, voice, bass, or trumpet. Technique, equipment, touch, and the instrument all affect it.

Try or listen for this

Pluck a guitar string near the bridge, then near the neck. The pitch stays the same but the tone changes.

Why it matters

Tone helps a part communicate its character and sit well with other instruments.