Conference- Metamorphoses of the Baroque Concerto

During the Baroque period, new musical genres emerged, among which the concerto assumed a leading role. Based on the principle of contrast or opposition between sound groups (soli/tutti or concertino and ripieno), but also on the dialogue and theatricality that arise from that interaction, it can be regarded as a kind of ideal of musical Baroque. Between the late 17th century and the mid-18th century, three main categories of instrumental concerto emerged—the concerto grosso, the solo concerto, and the concerto di gruppo—yet with sufficient flexibility to allow for multiple variants.

This lecture offers an overview of the main metamorphoses of the concerto as a musical genre during the first half of the 18th century, relating them to their protagonists (composers, performers, patrons, sponsors, publishers) and to possible performance venues (courts, churches, theatres, academies, cafés). Special attention will be given to the creative contexts and the musical particularities of the works featured in the program.

• This lecture takes place in connection with the concert by Ensemble Diderot, Bach Violin Concertos, on March 6, at 8:00pm.