Baroque Music

Characteristics Baroque – comes from the Italian word “barocco” meaning bizarre or exuberant The word was originally used to describe the highly decorative style of the 17 th and 18 th century Baroque is now used to describe music from the 17 th and 18 th century. It refers to the genre of music that originated around 1600 until about 1750

Although we may sometimes think that the music is very rigid, many people during the 1600s and 1700s thought that music was highly emotional. The fast and flowery notes made them think the music was “WILD.” Word painting was used a lot in Baroque music. This was when the words were portrayed through the music – either through the lyrics or just in the music. (Ex: water fall, sigh)

Many composers wrote their music for specific purposes. For example, Vivaldi wrote many famous concertos, however, he also wrote many 5-finger exercises for his students. Bach’s music early music was influenced by the courts where he was employed. However, his later music was usually written for the church.

Many composers worked for patrons – people who paid them money to write music. This was usually the noble courts, rich families, or the Church.

Composers and Famous Works Antonio Vivaldi – Four Seasons George Fredric Handel – Messiah, Water Music Suites, Royal Fireworks Music J.S. Bach – keyboard works (Inventions), Brandenburg Concerto, Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring Domenico Scarlatti – keyboard works (over 500 piano Sonatas)