Volume of Music
Name an element of baroque music that was known to contain contrasts.
Dynamics, rhythm, melody, and timbre
Where did the word “Baroque” come from? What is the meaning?
Baroque comes from the word barrueco. It is Portuguese for “rough pearl.” This was originally used to insult the complex structure of the music.
How was music used during the Baroque period?
It was used by monarchies, nobility, and the Church to demonstrate their power.
Name 2 types of string instruments that were prominent in the Baroque era.
Violin, viola d’amore, mandolin, theorbo, and harpsichord
What is a concerto?
Instrumental with contrasting movements (fast-slow-fast) that feature a musical dialogue between the orchestra and either a soloist or a small group of instruments.
How would you describe the dynamics (measure of musical volume) in Baroque music?
There was great dynamic contrast. Dynamics varied and quickly changed from very loud to very soft.
How long did the Baroque period last?
From the time of the first preserved opera to the death of J.S. Bach. (1600 to 1750).
How did the timbre of music evolve during the Baroque period?
It became more varied, vibrant, and rich. The emergence of the orchestra allowed for a mixing of different types of instruments.
Name 2 types of wind instruments that were prominent during the Baroque era.
Piccolo, transverse flute, oboe, bassoon, trumpet, horn
What is the difference between dialogue in a concerto grosso and a concerto a solo?
A concerto a solo has a dialogue between the soloist and the orchestra.
A concerto grosso has a dialogue between a small group of instruments & the orchestra.
What is the chiaro-oscuro (claro-oscuro) painting technique, and how does it relate to music during the Baroque period?
Claro-oscuro (light-dark) relates to the great contrast between bright figures in a forefront and a dark background. This relates to the contrast in musical elements in Baroque music.
Name two composers from the Baroque period.
Monteverdi, Vivaldi, Frescobaldi, Corelli, Caccini, Strozzi, Bach, Praetorius, Schutz, Telemann, Handel, Purcell, Lully, Charpentier, Couperin, Hidalgo, Literes, Nebra, Duron
What were melodies from Baroque music like? Complex or simple?
Complex, with elaborate ornamentation
What type of instrument is the timpani?
Percussion instrument
What is a suite? What are the four different types?
An instrumental form made of several dances that differ in character, rhythm, and tempo. The dances originated in the Renaissance.
The main types were Allemande (slow), Courante (lively), Sarabande (slow), Gigue (fast).
What is echoing, and how does it relate to the dynamics of baroque music?
It relates to dynamic contrast. Music would first be played loudly (forte) and then repeated softly (piano).
Name two of the 4 key parts of an Opera performance.
Extra 100 points for additional parts that are correctly named.
Recitative (plot progression and emphasis on text), Aria (melodic vocal portion), Overture (introductory instrumental), Interlude (transitional instrumental).
The Hallelujah chorus by George Friedrich Handel is considered what type of religious vocal music?
Oratorio
What is a luthier?
A maker of stringed instruments (i.e. violins, lutes, guitars, etc).
What is a tocatta?
An instrumental played on a keyboard (harpsichord) used to showcase the technical and improvisatory capabilities of a musician. Runs and arpeggios can be found throughout.
Were changes in the dynamics of Baroque music usually gradual or sudden?
Sudden - contributed to the contrast of loud and soft.
Who were the castrati? Why did people idolize them?
Extra 100 points if you can name one of the castrati.
The Castrati were male singers who were castrated before puberty to preserve their high singing voices. They were popular because of their high range and ability to sing pieces intended for sopranos and altos. It was unique because most men's voices deepen with age.
Famous castrati: Farinelli, Ferri, Senesino, and Pacchierotti.
Opera notably influenced the development of which religious vocal forms during the Baroque period?
Extra 100 points if you name the type that was typically sung during Holy Week.
Oratorio, Passion, and Cantata.
Passion was typically performed during Holy Week, as it related to the suffering and death of Christ.
Why did instrumental music gain prominence during the Baroque era (name 2 reasons)?
1. Technical evolution of instruments that allowed for wider range and richer sound.
2.The birth of the orchestra.
What is a fugue?
Vocal performance that includes counterpoint (a.k.a. The combination of 2+ melodic lines that are played simultaneously.