MUSIC OF THE BAROQUE

PERIOD
Teacher Eugene
 WHAT DOES BAROQUE
LITERALLY MEAN?
• The word Baroque is derived from the Portuguese word
“Barroco” which means “pearl of irregular shape.”
• Arts highlighted grandiose and elaborate ornamentation
which clearly seen in the musical compositions created
by Baroque composers.
 WHAT HAPPENED DURING
THIS PERIOD?
• New instrumental techniques and changes in musical
notation were developed.
• Major and minor tonality was also created in this period.
• Lots of musical terms and concepts evolved in this era
and are still used today.
CHARACTERISTICS
• Melodies sound elaborate and ornamental
• Melodies are not easy to sing or remember
• Primarily contrapuntal textures with some homophony
• Dynamic contrast – alternation between loud & soft
• Orchestra consists of strings and continuo
• Harpsichord and organ are the keyboard instruments that
are commonly used
• New forms:
1. Binary – AB
2. Ternary – ABC
2. Ground Bass
4. Fugue
MUSIC GENRE
 CONCERTO
• A form of orchestral music that employs a solo
instrument accompanied by an orchestra.
 CONCERTO GROSSO
• A form of orchestral music during where in the music is
between a small group of solo instruments called
concertino and the whole orchestra called tutti.
 FUGUE
• A contrapuntal piece, developed mainly by imitative
counterpoint.
• Usually written in 3-4 parts with a main theme called
“subject”
• The entire piece grow mainly from a single brief tune of
strong musical character.
 ORATORIO
• A large scale musical composition for orchestra and
voices that incorporates narrative on religious themes.
• Unlike usual literal theatrical works, this is usually
performed without the use of costumes, scenery or
action.
• Written in the native language for intended audience.
 CHORALE
• Musical compositions that resemble a harmonized
version of hymnal tunes of the Protestant Church during
the Baroque era.
COMPOSERS
 JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH
(1685-1750)

- Came from a family of

musician. A religious man
which was shown in his
sacred music.
- Known for his work on
organs, orchestra and
oratorio.
 ANTONIO VIVALDI
(1678-1741)

- Nicknamed as “the red

priest”. A violinist virtuoso
and one of the greatest
baroque composers.
- He was known mainly for
composing instrumental
concertos. His most famous
piece is “The four seasons”.
 GEORGE FRIEDRICH HANDEL
(1685-1759)

- Is remembered for his

operas and oratorios and
England’s favorite
composer.
- “Messiah” is Handel’s most
famous creation and the
very well known
“Hallelujah”.
End!