Baroque Period Flashcards
What is the difference between Baroque and Modern tuning
modern tuning- 440 Hz
Baroque tuning was lower at 415 Hz
What is basso continuo
a baroque accompaniment made up of a bass part to be played by a low string instrument such as the cello. It would be doubled by the left hand part of the piano. It continued throughout the piece.
another continuo player on the organ or harpsichord would build up chords based on the bass line to fill in the harmonies
Name two types of recitative
Secco- dry- chords on continuo
Stromentato or accompagnato- accompanied
Define Da Capo Aria
ABA structure however the second A section is not notated giving the performer a chance to show their skill at adding ornamentation
How were dynamics used in the Baroque period
Whilst dynamics were never written on the music it was expected that they would be added by the performer
Dynamic contrast was also achieved through the ripieno and then the concertino
How were dynamics used in the harpsichord
A harpsichord could not play dynamics however chords could be filled in/made more dense to give the appearance of something being louder
What is ritornello form
form based on an alternation between the tutti and the solo sections. The first movement always begins with the ritornello or refrain. This theme returns in fragments throughout the movement
How was syncopation used in the baroque period
often used in long melody lines to develop it
Name an example of programme music in the baroque period
Four Seasons by Vivaldi
