Study Guides

Unit Summary

This unit explores the development of the concerto through the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods. Lessons focus on typical features and how these evolved in relation to stylistic trends during those periods. It also includes analysis of a series of case studies, exemplifying the developments.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify key features of the Baroque solo concerto.

Key Notes

• 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.

Vocabulary To Learn

• 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 Mistakes To Avoid

• Melody and accompaniment is not a homophonic texture.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• The concerto grosso Study Guide
• The concerto in the Classical period Study Guide
• The piano concerto through time Study Guide
• The romantic concerto Study Guide