Intro

Question 1

Baroque

Answer 1

• Portuguese: barroco (irregularly shaped or misshapen pearl)
• first used as derogatory term in reference to overly ornate art of the era
• now applied to art, architecture, and music of 17th and early 18th centuries

Question 2

Figured bass

Answer 2

• musical shorthand dev in Baroque era
• numbers below bass line to show harmonic progression
• performed or “realized” by basso continuo
• structure for guided improvisation

Question 3

Basso continuo

Answer 3

• Baroque performance practice
• generally 2 performers
• 1 plays notated bass line
• 1 realizes harmonies indicated by figured bass

Harmonies usually played on harpsichord or organ

-provides harmonic framework

Question 4

The “Affections”

Answer 4

• also referred to as “Doctrine of Affections” or “the affects”
• Baroque philosophy inspired by Ancient Greek and Roman writers and orators
• refers to emotional states of the soul
• in Baroque music: a single “affection” or “affect” (1 clear emotion) is usually projected through an entire composition or movement
• vocal music depicted emotions of text or dramatic situation

Question 5

Binary form

Answer 5

• two-part form: A || B ||
• but parts often repeat
• Section A generally end w/ open cadence in dominant or relative major key
• frequently used in Baroque dances and keyboard pieces

Question 6

Rounded binary form

Answer 6

• two-part musical form: A || B + A1 ||
• opening natural from Section A returns after B material
• key structure similar to binary form

Question 7

Ternary form

Answer 7

• three-part from A || B || A
• Section A generally ends with closed cadence in tonic key
• Section B generally contrast in key and/or material
• often used in Baroque arias

Question 8

Terraced dynamics

Answer 8

• Baroque practice of changing dynamics abruptly

- results in stark contrast rather than gradual change

Question 9

The Baroque Era

Answer 9

ca 1600 - 1750