Baroque structures

Question 1

Describe the Concerto Grosso

Answer 1

1) A small group of soloists (concertino) is contrasted with the the rest of the orchestra (ripieno which is usually a string orchestra) and basso continuo. Handel wrote several Concerto Grossi (e.g in Concerto Grosso No.5, concertino made up of 2 violins and 1 cello, ripieno is a string orchestra and continuo is played on the harpsichord)
2) Baroque composers also wrote solo concertos. Here, a single solo instrument is showcased allowing performer to demonstrate instrument’s capabilities, accompanied by orchestra. E.g Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ is a solo concerto for violin

Question 2

Describe binary forms

Answer 2

1) Means something in two parts (has two sections)
2) Usually used for Baroque dances e.g minuet
3) Each section is repeated (AABB)
4) Section B contrasts with Section A
5) Contrast is often made by modulating to related keys. Pieces in minor usually modulate to relative major e.g A minor to C major. Pieces in major usually modulate to dominant key e.g C major to G major

Question 3

Describe ternary forms

Answer 3

1) Has three sections - general structure is ABA but sections often repeated, producing structures e.g AABBAA
2) Section A ends in home key normally with perfect cadence which makes piece sound like a complete piece itself
3) In Section B music often modulates to a related key like dominant or relative minor, then goes back to home key at end
4) Last section can be exactly the same as Section A or slightly varied version