Essentials of Music

MUSICAL CONTEXT

A Time of Experimentation

Musicians embraced the idea that music could move the listener in a real and physical way.
Opera, with its blend of music and drama, was the full realization of this ideal.
In instrumental music, no less than in opera, composers experimented with ways of creating impressive effects.

Expanding Roles for Music

Music continued to be used as an important tool of statecraft.
The new and extravagant styles served as a rich adornment to religious services in both Catholic and Protestant traditions.
Music, especially opera, was as an important source of entertainment to the growing merchant and landed classes.

A Growing Awareness of National Styles

Distinct styles of both vocal and instrumental music developed in Italy, France and Germany.
Composers were aware of these differences and made use of them in their music. A French composer, for example, might label a piece "In the Italian Style".
The question of the superiority of various styles was often the subject of heated debate.

The Full Equality of Instrumental Music

New instrumental forms, such as the concerto and sonata developed.
Instrument makers created new types of instruments (especially wind instruments).
The violin moved to center stage as the most important string instrument.
Performers reached new heights of expression and technique. Virtuoso players (such as Archangelo Corelli and Antonio Vivaldi) reflected these abilities in their own compositions.
Even in vocal music, instruments played an important role. Instruments not only served as accompaniment, but often played equal roles with the voices.