Question 7 Allegro 1 Mock

Baroque period

The baroque period (1600-1750) produced music, which was characterised by strong contrasts and an attempt to communicate with the listener. Prior to 1859 there was no standard pitch and instruments were often tuned differently than today. Scores had no dynamics or articulations as we know them so the players had license in terms of interpreting the pieces they played. Baroque music was inspired by the idea of the melody or voice communicating a message or emotion and gave birth to forms like the opera, oratorio, cantata as well as instrumental forms like the sonata, the concerto and the suite. Instruments were more limited than we know today with those such as the harpsichord and lute featuring prominently and a strong central voice or melody with other parts bringing harmony to the piece. Known for its ornamental style, this music was often quite elaborate and intricate as the melodies interwove and harmonised together. The orchestra size was quite small compared to either the classical or romantic periods, which followed. This stage marked a change in terms of composers writing music for specific instruments, a choice which previously had often been left to performers.

Key composers during this period were Handel (1685-1759) and Bach (1685-1750), who although living quite close together (Halle and Leipzig), never actually met. Handel pursued an “international” career eventually moving to London where he became a British citizen. Bach remained in Leipzig where he worked for the church and composed until his death.

Handel is well known for such pieces as the “Royal Fireworks” which has much of the pomp and ceremony that we associate with royal events and is still used today at such occurrences. He also is famous for the Messiah, a body of music celebrating the life of Christ which includes the well know and loved “Halleluiah Chorus”.

I enjoyed the often uplifting and extravagant nature of music from the Baroque era. The contrasting nature of the pieces ensures that the ear must always be alert to what is happening in the music and usually I feel carried from beginning to end in a logical progression of the music.