The Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso

The Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso

The Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso

Definition of the Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso

  • A concerto grosso is a form of baroque music in which the musical material is passed between a small group of soloists (the concertino) and full orchestra (the tutti or ripieno).
  • The term “Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso” refers to a concerto grosso where there is one prevailing solo instrument.
  • This form became popular in the 17th and 18th century in Europe, mainly in Italy.

Structures and Features

  • A concerto grosso is generally structured in three movements: fast - slow - fast.
  • Contrast is a significant principle in the concerto grosso, highlighted by alternating the full orchestra and the group of soloists.
  • The soloist is centre stage and is contrasted with the accompaniment of the tutti.
  • Concerto Grosso often features Ritornello form – recurring instrumental sections interspersed with episodes featuring the soloists.

Notable Composers and Compositions

  • Key composers of Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso include Arcangelo Corelli, Antonio Vivaldi, and Johann Sebastian Bach.
  • Corelli’s Concerti Grossi, Op. 6 are often cited as the first full exploit of the form.
  • Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, a set of four violin concerti, is another notable example of a Baroque Solo Concerto Grosso.
  • Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos are also integral to the concerto grosso repertoire.

Importance in Music History

  • The concerto grosso form was instrumental in shaping the sonata and symphony forms, which evolved later in music history.
  • It is a corner stone of the Baroque musical period, and significantly influenced the development of the solo concerto.
  • It marked an important development in emphasizing the individual soloist in contrast with the orchestral group, an idea that continued through the classical period and beyond.

Relevance to Today’s Listener

  • We still listen to and perform concerti grossi today, especially those by the composers mentioned above.
  • The concerto grosso form, especially as shown in Bach’s music, has been used as the basis for many modern arrangements and compositions.
  • These works are frequently performed by chamber and orchestra groups around the world, and they continue to be valued for the beautiful interplay between the soloists and the entire orchestra.