Features Flashcards
Dynamics
terraced dynamics - dynamics change suddenly because of the change in texture. Little use of crescendo and diminuendo or dynamics in general.
Rhythm
Constant and repetitive, Usually fast of moderate, Harpsichord is used to express the steady beat
Tonality
major and minor keys (diatonic), Modulations were used to create contrast, Cadences were used to define the key/tonality of a section
tempo
always very clear, regular and well defined.
structure
Commonly ritornello form (which mean return – or in this case, repetition), lots of ornamentation
melody
phrased and predictable, imitation between different instrument, scalic melodies, flowing phrases
instumentation
Mostly strings, wind and harpsichord, small orchestra
texture
polyphonic, tick texture through imitation, contrast in voices, continuous bass
harmony
Consists ofchords which produce the foundation of the melody, harmonic patterns
what is chamber music
small ensembles playing for small audiences in a small setting.