Barcarolles is a musical term that refers to a type of song that imitates a Venetian barcarolle or gondolier's song. The first syllable of the word is pronounced as 'bar' which rhymes with car. The second syllable, 'ca', is pronounced as 'kuh'. The last syllable, 'rolles', rhymes with 'tolls'. Overall, the word is pronounced as "bahr-kuh-rohlz". In terms of spelling, the word is derived from the Italian word 'barcarola' which means a boat song.
Barcarolles refer to a form of vocal or instrumental music typically associated with boating or water-related themes. Derived from the Italian word "barcarola," meaning boat song, barcarolles are characterized by their gentle, swaying rhythm reminiscent of the motion of rowing or sailing. As a musical genre, barcarolles originated in Italy during the 18th century and gained popularity throughout Europe during the Romantic era.
Barcarolles are often written in a moderate time signature, commonly in 6/8 or 12/8 meter, imitating the undulating waves of a tranquil water journey. They display a lyrical melody that captures the melodious and soothing essence of rowing songs. Furthermore, they incorporate harmonic progressions and accompaniment patterns that evoke a sense of floating or gliding on water.
Typically performed by solo voices, barcarolles showcase the natural beauty and expressiveness of the human voice. However, they can also be arranged as instrumental compositions, often featuring the piano or other orchestral instruments. In many instances, their lyrics revolve around love, longing, nature, or the charm of life on the water.
Barcarolles have found their way into both classical and popular music. Composers like Frédéric Chopin, Johannes Brahms, and Gabriel Fauré have composed renowned barcarolles that have become staples of the piano repertoire. Furthermore, their influence has extended to other genres, with elements of barcarolles being incorporated into sea shanties, folk songs, and even contemporary pop music. Overall, barcarolles provide a musical experience that transports listeners to the peaceful and picturesque realm of water journeys.
The songs of the Venetian gondoliers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "barcarolles" is derived from the Italian word "barcarola", which originally referred to a traditional Venetian boat song sung by gondoliers. It is formed by combining the Italian words "barca" meaning "boat" and "ora" meaning "time" or "hour". The term "barcarola" eventually became synonymous with a type of lyrical song or instrumental music that imitated the rhythm and style of these gondolier songs. Over time, the word was adopted into other languages, including French and English, and expanded in meaning to encompass various musical compositions with a similar character, often featuring a gentle and flowing melody. Thus, "barcarolles" came to refer to a specific genre of music or particular compositions that evoke the charm and ambiance of Venetian boat songs.