Lesson details
Key learning points
- Baroque music has certain distinctive characteristics.
- These include use of continuo, terraced dynamics and contrapuntal textures.
- Melodies are often long and flowing and are decorated with ornamentation.
- Key genres include the trio sonata, suite, prelude and fugue, concerto and overture.
Keywords
Baroque period - the period of Western classical music between 1600 and 1750
Continuo - the accompaniment section of the Baroque orchestra, normally including harpsichord and a bass stringed instrument (e.g. cello)
Ornamentation - when a performer decorates a melody with extra notes (e.g. trills, turns)
Terraced dynamics - where dynamics change suddenly, rather than gradually
Contrapuntal - a type of polyphonic texture that includes two or more interweaving melodic lines
Common misconception
All Baroque music is contrapuntal / polyphonic.
Textures are varied in the Baroque period, but use of contrapuntal/polyphonic textures was very common and contrasts with the later Classical period. This is a typical texture of the period, but not the only one.
Equipment
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match each Baroque term to its meaning.
a continuous bass part with chordal accompaniment
extra musical flourishes added to decorate a melody
a composition built on a main theme repeated in different voices
a collection of short dance movements
Q2.Which of these is a common texture used in Baroque music?
Q3.Which of these best describes terraced dynamics?
Q4.The style of music where two or more melodies are played at the same time is called .
Q5.A long, flowing Baroque melody is often decorated with __________.
Q6.Which of these genres was not developed during the Baroque period?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these is a distinctive feature of Baroque music?
Q2.A Baroque composition that includes different voices entering with the same theme is called a .
Q3.Which of these correctly describes the melodies in Baroque music?
Q4.Match each Baroque genre to its description.
written for two solo instruments and continuo
an introductory piece, often free-flowing
features a soloist or group contrasted with an orchestra
a large-scale musical work based on a sacred story