The Baroque Concerto

A set of flashcards covering key concepts, definitions, and characteristics related to the Baroque concerto, as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is a Baroque concerto?

A piece of music for one or more solo instruments accompanied by an orchestra.

What are the two types of Baroque concertos?

The Solo Concerto and the Concerto Grosso.

What is the role of the Concertino in a Concerto Grosso?

It is the group of solo instruments.

What is the Ripieno in a Concerto Grosso?

The larger ensemble that accompanies the solo group.

What is Basso Continuo?

The bass accompaniment in Baroque music, typically made up of harpsichord or organ and cello or bassoon.

Define Homophonic Texture.

All parts moving in harmony, having the same rhythm but different notes.

Define Polyphonic/contrapuntal Texture.

Independent melodies played at the same time.

What are Balanced phrases in music?

Phrase lengths that are of an even number.

What is ornamentation in music?

Decorative notes that help fill out a melody, such as trills and grace notes.

What is the typical structure of a Concerto Grosso?

Usually consists of 3 movements, often in a fast-slow-fast format.

What does 'Ritornello' mean in the context of a concerto?

A form in which the whole orchestra alternates playing the theme with sections played by soloists.

List two features of Baroque Concerto music.

Use of basso continuo and virtuosic solo sections.

What is the significance of Corelli and Vivaldi in Baroque music?

They were two of the greatest composers of concertos during the Baroque era.

What does a 'virtuoso' refer to?

A musician with exceptional skill.

What instrument was widely used as a solo instrument in Baroque music before the piano?

The harpsichord.

What does 'Terraced Dynamics' refer to in Baroque music?

Sudden changes in dynamics.