Baroque Terms questions with complete solutions 2023

Baroque Terms Baroque - correct answer From the Portuguese 'barraco', meaning irregularly shaped or misshapen pearl. First used as a derogatory term in reference to the overly ornate art of the era. It is now applied to art, architecture, and music of the 17th and early 18th centuries. Figured Bass - correct answer A type of musical shorthand developed in the Baroque era. Numbers are placed below the bass line to show harmonic progression. Performed or realized by the 'basso continuo.' It provides the structure for guided improvisation. 'Basso Continuo' - correct answer Important element of Baroque performance practice. Generally involves two performers - one playing the notated bass line, one realized the harmonies as indicated by the figured bass. Harmonies usually played on harpsichord or organ. Provides harmonic framework. Monody - correct answer Literally "one song." A new style which developed in the late 16th century. A single vocal melody with simple instrumental accompaniment allowed for greater expression of emotion and clarity of text. The "Affections" - correct answer A Baroque philosophy inspired by ancient Greek and Roman writers and orators. Refers to the emotional states of the soul. In Baroque music, a single "affect" (one clear emotion) is usually projected through an entire composition or movement. Also referred to as the "Doctrine of Affections." Vocal music depicted the emotions of the text or dramatic situation. Was a reaction against the complex polyphony of Renaissance music. Binary Form - correct answer Two part form. Section A generally ends with an open cadence. Frequently used in Baroque dances and keyboard pieces. Rounded Binary Form - correct answer Two part musical form: A:||:B+A:||. Material from Section A returns within Section B. Ternary Form - correct answer Three part form. Section B generally creates contrast in key and/or material. Often used in Baroque arias. Terraced Dynamics - correct answer Baroque practice of changing dynamics abruptly. Results in stark contrast rather than gradual change. Opera - correct answer Italian for "work." Drama that is sung. Combines vocal and instrumental music with drama (staging and acting), visual arts (costumes and scenery), and often dance. 'stile rappresentativo' - correct answer Italian for "representational style." The term used by the Florentine Camerata musicians to describe the monodic style. A recitative-like melody moving freely over a foundation of simple chords. The music was meant to heighten the emotional power of the text. Castrato - correct answer Male soprano or alto voice. Subjected to a surgical procedure before reaching puberty which prevented the voice from changing. Prominent in 17th and 18th century. Generally used in heroic roles. Libretto - correct answer The text of an opera, oratorio, or cantata. Usually written by someone other than the composer. Often based on a play, novel, or an episode in history. Aria - correct answer Lyrical song for solo voice with orchestral accompaniment. Often highly emotional and sometimes performed independently. Expressed the character's feelings and emotions. Recitative - correct answer A speech-lie, declamatory style of singing. Used for dialogue and to advance the plot. More lyrical than speech but less lyrical than song. Replaced by spoken dialogue in some styles of opera. Recitativo Secco - correct answer Italian for "dry recitative." A speech-like, declamatory style of singing. Supported only by continuo. Employed in opera, oratorio, and cantata. Recitativo Accompagnato - correct answer Italian for "accompanied recitative." A speech-like, declamatory style of singing. Supported by instrumental ensemble or orchestra. Allows for greater connection with the text. Employed in operas, oratorios, and cantatas. Chorus - correct answer Adds musical variety to the operatic works of many composers. Singers may be participants in the plot (group or crowd scenes) or may be set apart from the staging, serving to comment or reflect on the action much like a narrator.