The baroque solo concerto
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify key features of the Baroque solo concerto.
Key learning points
- The Baroque solo concerto features many typical features of Baroque music.
- These include a typical Baroque orchestra with continuo, and melodic features such as ornamentation and imitation.
- Baroque concertos create contrast through use of tutti and solo sections, terraced dynamics and contrasting textures.
- The three movements of a concerto contrast with each other, and often one or more use ritornello form.
- This features a ritornello section that returns throughout.
Keywords
Concerto - a composition for a solo instrument with orchestral accompaniment
Tutti - In a tutti passage the whole ensemble plays
Continuo - a section of the baroque orchestra that play accompaniment; it normally includes harpsichord and a bass stringed instrument (e.g. cello)
Ritornello - a recurring passage in a piece of Baroque music
Terraced dynamics - sudden shifts in dynamics
Common misconception
Melody and accompaniment is not a homophonic texture.
There are different kinds of homophonic texture. A chordal homophonic texture is one in which all parts play the same rhythm. Melody and accompaniment is also called melody-dominated homophony, where there is a homophonic texture with a melody above.
Teacher tip
To build familiarity with ritornello form, listen to third movements of Vivaldi solo concertos. Challenge students to identify the return of each ritornello section. Also consider short composition exercises where students create a returning 8-bar ritornello, adding varied material between.
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