Chapter 5: The Baroque Era
Preview Questions
Political and Cultural Context
In the last chapter you have learned a bit about the Middle Ages and Renaissance eras. In this chapter, we will embark on the Baroque period. Notable changes occurred in both art and music during this time. Both art forms became more elaborate and tapped into the human experience. Artists added ornate decorations, colors, and gold leaf trimmings, and composers included long intricate ornamented melodies and intricate harmonies. Two examples of famous pieces that were composed during this time are Johann Sebastian Bach’s (1685–1750) “Toccata in D minor” and the "Hallelujah Chorus" by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759) is still heard today during the holidays in movies. In this chapter, we will explore the cultural, political, and musical events that shaped this era and facilitated its lasting global impact.
The battle between the Catholic Church in Italy and followers of Martin Luther in Germany gave the Church had given a sense of freedom from control by the Church. The concept of Humanism that was introduced in Chapter 3 spread in the Baroque period, promoted by scholars influenced by Greek philosophy. They valued human beings and trusted in the goodness of people to solve problems rationally. The artwork of the time incorporated more colors, and depicted human emotions that were relatable in everyday life. Music became to be seen as a way to experience feelings and an expression of the soul.
Review Questions
- What does the term "Baroque" mean, and how does it relate to art and music?
- What time period does “Baroque” refer to?
- What composers do you know who composed during that time period?
- What are some major world events that occurred during this time period?
- What similarities do you expect to find between the Baroque and Renaissance eras?
- What is Humanism?
- What countries in Europe played an essential role in the development of Baroque music?
- What string, woodwind, and keyboard instruments do you think represent Baroque Music?
- What do you know about Johann Sebastian Bach and his music?
- What type of jobs were available to musicians during Bach’s time?
Political and Cultural Context
In the last chapter you have learned a bit about the Middle Ages and Renaissance eras. In this chapter, we will embark on the Baroque period. Notable changes occurred in both art and music during this time. Both art forms became more elaborate and tapped into the human experience. Artists added ornate decorations, colors, and gold leaf trimmings, and composers included long intricate ornamented melodies and intricate harmonies. Two examples of famous pieces that were composed during this time are Johann Sebastian Bach’s (1685–1750) “Toccata in D minor” and the "Hallelujah Chorus" by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759) is still heard today during the holidays in movies. In this chapter, we will explore the cultural, political, and musical events that shaped this era and facilitated its lasting global impact.
The battle between the Catholic Church in Italy and followers of Martin Luther in Germany gave the Church had given a sense of freedom from control by the Church. The concept of Humanism that was introduced in Chapter 3 spread in the Baroque period, promoted by scholars influenced by Greek philosophy. They valued human beings and trusted in the goodness of people to solve problems rationally. The artwork of the time incorporated more colors, and depicted human emotions that were relatable in everyday life. Music became to be seen as a way to experience feelings and an expression of the soul.
Review Questions
- What are the basic ideas of Humanism? How are they expressed in artwork in the Baroque period?
- How does the Baroque orchestra size compare to a modern-day ensemble in size and variety of instruments?
- Who played in the continuo, and what was its purpose?
- Who were the sponsors for Baroque music in France and Germany?
- What is the difference between monophonic and polyphonic music?
- Name a German-born composer known as one of the greatest musicians ever to live.
- Approximately how many compositions did he write? Name one and describe it.
- What did he include in his autographed signature on his compositions?
- Name an Italian composer from the Baroque. Name and describe one of their compositions.