CONCERTO GROSSO Meaning and
Definition
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A concerto grosso is a musical composition that emerged during the Baroque period and is characterized by the interplay between a small group of solo instruments, known as the concertino, and a larger ensemble, known as the ripieno or tutti. The term "concerto grosso" is derived from the Italian words concerto, meaning "concert," and grosso, meaning "large" or "great."
In a concerto grosso, the concertino typically consists of two or more soloists, often playing different instruments, such as violin, cello, or flute. These soloists take turns playing virtuosic passages, engaging in dialogue with each other and with the ripieno. The ripieno, on the other hand, is composed of a larger group of musicians, such as strings, woodwinds, and continuo instruments, including harpsichord or organ.
The concerto grosso follows a three-movement structure, resembling that of a solo concerto. The first movement is usually in the fast and lively tempo of Allegro, followed by a slower and more lyrical second movement, and ending with a fast and spirited finale.
Renowned Baroque composers, such as Arcangelo Corelli, Antonio Vivaldi, and George Frideric Handel, popularized and perfected the concerto grosso form. Their compositions often featured intricate counterpoint, virtuosic passages, and contrasting themes between the concertino and ripieno. The concerto grosso became a prominent genre in Baroque music, showcasing both the individual talents of the soloists and the collective power of the ensemble.
Common Misspellings for CONCERTO GROSSO
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- cincerto grosso
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- conxerto grosso
- converto grosso
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- conderto grosso
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Etymology of CONCERTO GROSSO
The word "Concerto Grosso" is of Italian origin. The term "concerto" comes from the Italian verb "concertare", which means "to harmonize" or "to bring together". It was derived from the Latin word "concertare", which means "to contend" or "to fight". In musical terms, it originally referred to the practice of contrasting different groups or instruments in performances.
The word "grosso" translates to "large" in English. In the context of the concerto grosso, it denotes the presence of both a small group of soloists (the concertino) and a larger accompanying ensemble (the ripieno). The soloists and the accompanying ensemble interact and alternate with each other in this concerto form. The term "grosso" emphasizes the contrast between these two groups, creating a rich and dynamic musical texture.
