Baroque Period 1600-1750
Stylistic Characteristics of the Baroque Period Much of the Baroque keyboard music was written for harpsichord and clavichord Many forms were used in baroque composition including: binary, fugue, variations, and invention The major/minor key system replaced the modes of the medieval period, making it possible to modulate from one key to a related key The use of melody (a single melodic idea) was implemented A single musical piece tended to project a single mood or expression of feeling Use of basso continuo (figured bass)- partially improvised accompaniment played on a bass line
Johann Sebastian Bach Impact on Period: Extensive use of counterpoint Important compositions 1703-1749 Composition #1: Tocatta and Fugue in D Minor (1703) Composition #2: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (1723)
Antonio Vivaldi Impact on Period: Music represented a clarity of form and concise themes Year range for important compositions in this period: 1703-1740 Composition #1: Gloria (1715) Composition #2: The Four Seasons, Concerto No. 1 in E Major, Op. 8 (1723)
George Frederic Handel Impact on period: Known for the oratorio (a large scale concert piece) Year range for important compositions in this period: 1705-1751 Composition #1: Hornpipe from The Water Music (1717) Composition #2: Messiah, For unto us a child is born (1741)