Ornamentation plays a crucial role in Baroque music. It's characterized by elaborate embellishments, trills, mordents, and expressive nuances that add depth to compositions. These ornaments vary based on the skill of the performer, creating a personalized interpretation of a piece.
Strong Basslines:
Baroque music often features distinct and prominent basslines that serve as a foundation for the harmonic structure. The continuo section, comprising instruments like the cello and double bass, plays a vital role in establishing a solid rhythmic and harmonic framework for other instruments.
Counterpoint:
Baroque music frequently exhibits complex counterpoint, where multiple melodic lines interweave and harmonize. This technique adds layers of interest to the music, highlighting the independence and interplay between different instruments or voices.
Harmonic Progressions:
Baroque music employs a rich harmonic vocabulary, often featuring chromatic harmonies, modulations, and suspensions. This creates dramatic shifts in tonal color and enhances the overall musical expression.
Use of Dynamics and Articulations:
Baroque music incorporates dynamic contrasts, ranging from soft (piano) to loud (forte) passages. Additionally, articulations such as staccato, legato, and accent provide clarity and shape to musical phrases.
Influence of Instrumental Music:
Baroque music saw a surge in the development and popularity of instrumental music, including solo concertos, trio sonatas, and orchestral suites. This showcased the increasing virtuosity and technical prowess of instrumentalists.
Ensemble Performance:
Music during the Baroque era was primarily performed by small chamber ensembles and small- to medium-sized orchestras. This intimate setting contributed to a close and responsive collaboration among musicians.
Affekt
Baroque composers paid significant attention to "affect" (in Latin, "affectus"), which refers to the emotional impact and expression of music. Composers sought to evoke specific emotions and create evocative atmospheres.
National Stylistic Diversity:
Baroque music displays a wide range of national styles, reflecting the cultural and geographical diversity of the period. Distinct characteristics emerged from different regions, with notable contributions from Italy, France, Germany, and England.
Importance of Church Music:
For Baroque composers, church music held great significance. Masses, oratorios, and cantatas were vital components of religious ceremonies, employing impressive vocal forces and elaborate instrumental accompaniments.