UNIT TWO:THE BAROQUE PERIOD 1600 -1750
The time of turbulence, contrasts, and changes. These qualities are reflected in the art and music of the period. Birthday of opera and death of J.S. Bach. In between many new forms, genres, and textures emerged and new instruments were developed. The crystallization of the major-minor system provided the harmonic backbone of Baroque style. Patronage of the arts was an essential factor in shaping the lives and careers of composers in the 18th century. Artist and musicians relied on the generous support of patrons from different segments of society:aristocracy, the church, the state.. artists were often provided not only with monetary compensation, but also with security ,lodging, and opportunities to develop artistically.
TERMS:
Baroque- from Portuguese means irregular shaped or misshapen pearl;1st used as a derogatory term in reference to the overly ornate art of the era;applied to art,architecture,and music of the 17th and early 18th.
Major-minor tonality- music based on major(Ionian) and minor(Aeolian) scales;replaced by the modal language;serves as the foundation for musical composition.\figured bass- type of musical shorthand development in the baroque era;numbers are placed below the bass line to show harmonic progression;:realized” by basso continuo;provides the structure for guided improvisation.
Basso continuo- baroque performance practice;involves 2 performers- 1 playing the notated bass line and 1 realizing the harmonies as indicated by the figured bass;usually played on harpsichord or organ;provides harmonic framework.equal temperament- method of tunning keyboard instrument; all semitones within the otave are divided equally ; ceated enharmonic equivalents(Csharp/D lat)
Terraced dynamics- baroque practice of changing dynamics abruptly; results in stark contrast rather han gradual change.
The “affections”- inspired by ancient Greek and Roman writers and orators; refers to emotional states of the soul;in baroque means one clear emotion is usually project hough an intire compositon or movement;vocal music depicted the emotions of the text or dramatic situation;was a reaction against the compolex polyphony of renaissance music;also referred to as the “doctrine of affections”.
Word painting – musical pictorialization; music mirrors the literal meaning of the words; achieved through melody, rhythm or harmony
Idiomatic writing- the unique technical capabilities of an instrument are highlighter; opposite of “generic”;developed in Baroque era.
Binary form- 2 parts (AB);A ends with open cadence; used frequently in baroque dances and keyboard pieces;set in Baroque arias.
Ternary form(ABA)- B3 parts; B creates more contrast in key and/or material;often used in baroque arias.
Homophonic texture – melody with accompanied harmony; single voice takes over the melodic interest and melody is accompanied; melody on RH and LH has chords; its based on harmony.
Polyphonic texture- many voices , 1 or 2 or more melodic lines are combined; its based on counter points means note against not.eg.
ANTONIO VIVALDI 1678- 1741
• Violinist, and son of the violinist, conductor, highly prolific composer,; colorful figure in the musical life in Venice; he also was catholic priest; had red hair called “ the red priest”; Vivaldi brilliant, idiomatic, writing for strings advanced the art of performances of new heights of virtuosity
