Concerto

Question 1

What was the difference between Baroque and Classical Concerto?

Answer 1

Ritornello form was gradually replaced by modified sonata form (Classical)

Question 2

How did Mozart modify the first movement of his concertos?

Answer 2

He created a double exposition but kept the idea of a ritornello (Classical)

Question 3

What is a double exposition?

Answer 3

A modified version of sonata form in which there is both an orchestral and solo exposition (Classical)

Question 4

What is a cadenza?

Answer 4

An improvisatory passage in concertos used to display virtuosity and is either improvised or written in an improvisatory style (Classical)

Question 5

ALL CHARACTERISTICS OF Piano Concerto in G Major, K 453

Answer 5

Background: Written for Barbara Ployer to perform, one of Mozart’s most gifted students
Key: G major
Tempo: Allegro
Meter: Common time
Form: Sonata form with double exposition
Genre: Piano Concerto
Composer: Mozart
Date: 1784
Structure: 3 movements
Performing forces: Piano and orchestra (Classical)

Question 6

Musical Characteristics of Piano Concerto in G Major, K 453

Answer 6

Orchestral Exposition: Elegant violin accompanied by occasional woodwinds. The bridge is played forcefully to create contrast while the second theme features syncopation and even some minor keys. Finally, a bridge leads from the second theme to the nice closing codetta.
Solo Exposition: The piano plays the orchestral exposition but with decoration in g major with the left hand playing a simple 5131 pattern to allow the right hand to shine. The bridge modulates to D major and decorates the first theme even further. This is followed by a piano theme with a mood of quiet playfulness with woodwind accompaniment. This transitions to the second theme, played by piano and strings which climaxes to the grand codetta that allows for a reaffirmation of D major.
Development: The piano theme comes back in C minor, although it modulates to many other minor keys throughout. The woodwinds also have solos accompanied by piano.
Recapitulation: Reinstates everything in both expositions in g major
Cadenza: Very virtuosic following a great pause
Coda: Grand finish (Classical)