15.1 Baroque influences on Classical and Romantic music
3 min read•july 18, 2024
Baroque music left an indelible mark on later musical eras. Its techniques, like and , influenced Classical and Romantic composers, shaping their works in profound ways.
Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms all incorporated Baroque elements into their compositions. From Mozart's Requiem to Beethoven's late sonatas, these influences added depth and complexity to their music.
Baroque Influences on Classical and Romantic Music
Baroque techniques in later music
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- Counterpoint
- Multiple independent melodic lines played simultaneously
- Widely used in Baroque era, especially by J.S. Bach
- Continued to be employed by Classical and Romantic composers in works such as Mozart's Symphony No. 41 "Jupiter" finale and Beethoven's late string quartets
- Fugue
- Contrapuntal composition with a main theme (subject) imitated by other voices
- Prominent in Baroque keyboard and orchestral works
- Later composers incorporated fugal techniques in pieces like Beethoven's Grosse Fuge, Op. 133 and Brahms' Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24
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- Alternation between a recurring theme (ritornello) and contrasting episodes
- Common in Baroque concertos, especially those of Vivaldi
- Influenced Classical and Romantic concerto form as heard in Mozart's and Mendelssohn's
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- Sudden changes between loud and soft sections, without gradual crescendos or diminuendos
- Characteristic of Baroque music due to limitations of instruments
- Occasionally used by later composers for dramatic effect in works such as Beethoven's Symphony No. 5, first movement and Chopin's Piano Sonata No. 2 "Funeral March," third movement
Classical and Romantic Baroque influences
- Mozart's Requiem Mass in D minor, K. 626
- Employs counterpoint, especially in the "Kyrie" and "Domine Jesu" movements
- Features fugal writing in the "" and ""
- Utilizes Baroque-style orchestration with prominent use of bassoon and trombones
- Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 31 in A-flat major, Op. 110
- Third movement features a fugue, demonstrating Baroque influence
- Combines fugal technique with Classical sonata form
- Showcases Beethoven's mastery of counterpoint and integration of Baroque elements
- Brahms' (arr. for left hand)
- Transcription of J.S. Bach's Chaconne for solo violin
- Demonstrates Brahms' deep admiration for and study of Baroque music
- Illustrates the influence of Baroque forms and techniques on Romantic composers
Baroque's impact on musical development
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- Baroque belief that music should evoke specific emotions or affections
- Composers used musical devices (key, tempo, intervals) to convey particular emotions
- Influenced the emotional expressivity of Classical and Romantic music in styles such as (Storm and Stress) in works by Haydn and Mozart and the heightened emotional intensity in Beethoven's compositions
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- Musical representation of the literal meaning of a text
- Prevalent in Baroque vocal music, such as madrigals and opera
- Continued to be used by Classical and Romantic composers in genres like Schubert's Lieder (art songs) and Wagner's use of leitmotifs in his operas
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- Baroque music often featured strong contrasts in texture, dynamics, and mood
- Influenced the dramatic character of later musical styles through techniques such as sudden dynamic changes in Beethoven's works and the juxtaposition of contrasting themes in Berlioz's
Baroque elements: Classical vs Romantic
- Similarities
- Both Classical and Romantic composers drew inspiration from Baroque forms and techniques
- Continued use of counterpoint, fugue, and ritornello form
- Emphasis on emotional expression and dramatic contrasts
- Differences
- Classical period
- More balanced and restrained use of Baroque elements
- Focus on clarity, symmetry, and formal structure
- Baroque techniques often integrated into Classical forms (sonata form)
- Romantic period
- More overt and extensive use of Baroque elements
- Greater emphasis on emotional intensity and individual expression
- Baroque techniques used for dramatic effect and to evoke the past
- Classical period
- Examples
- Classical: Mozart's Symphony No. 41 "Jupiter" uses fugal techniques within sonata form
- Romantic: Mendelssohn's Organ Sonatas pay direct homage to Baroque style and J.S. Bach
Key Terms to Review (21)
Agnus Dei: Agnus Dei, which translates to 'Lamb of God' in Latin, is a significant liturgical phrase and musical setting used in Christian worship, particularly within the context of the Mass. This term often refers to a specific part of the Eucharistic liturgy where the congregation acknowledges Christ as the sacrificial lamb who takes away the sins of the world. Its influence can be seen in various musical forms that emerged during and after the Baroque period, shaping compositions in both Classical and Romantic music.
Antonio Vivaldi: Antonio Vivaldi was an Italian composer, violinist, and priest, best known for his contributions to Baroque music, particularly his concertos, especially 'The Four Seasons.' His work exemplified the key characteristics of the Baroque style, including the use of contrast, vivid imagery in music, and a strong sense of rhythm, which greatly influenced both his contemporaries and later composers.
Chaconne from Violin Partita No. 2 in D minor: The Chaconne is a set of variations over a repeated harmonic progression, prominently featured in J.S. Bach's Violin Partita No. 2 in D minor. This work showcases the Baroque style's complexity and emotional depth, influencing later Classical and Romantic music through its intricate melodies and structural innovation, as well as its exploration of emotional expression and technical virtuosity.
Counterpoint: Counterpoint is a musical technique that involves the simultaneous combination of two or more independent melodies to create a harmonious texture. It is a fundamental aspect of Western music, especially prominent in the Baroque period, where it enhances the complexity and expressiveness of compositions.
Doctrine of the Affections: The doctrine of the affections is a Baroque musical theory that suggests music can evoke specific emotions or 'affections' in the listener. This idea was rooted in the belief that different musical elements such as melody, harmony, and rhythm could be manipulated to express a range of emotional states, from joy to sorrow. It reflects the cultural shift during the Baroque era towards a more emotional and expressive style of art, influencing not only music but also literature and visual arts.
Dramatic contrasts: Dramatic contrasts refer to the striking differences in dynamics, texture, and instrumentation that create tension and excitement within a musical composition. This technique is essential in Baroque music, enhancing emotional expression and engaging the listener through sudden shifts between loud and soft passages, varied instrumental groupings, and changes in rhythmic intensity.
Fugue: A fugue is a complex musical form that features a theme, called the subject, which is introduced by one voice and then imitated by other voices in succession. This form showcases intricate counterpoint, where melodies interweave and develop, creating a rich and textured sound typical of the Baroque period.
George Frideric Handel: George Frideric Handel was a German-born composer who became a key figure in the Baroque music scene, known for his operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. His unique blend of German, Italian, and English musical styles helped shape the development of music during the Baroque period and beyond.
Johann Sebastian Bach: Johann Sebastian Bach was a German composer and musician of the Baroque period, renowned for his intricate compositions and mastery of various musical forms. His work exemplifies the complexity and emotional depth characteristic of Baroque music while also laying the groundwork for future musical developments.
Johannes Brahms: Johannes Brahms was a German composer and pianist, born in 1833 and passing in 1897, known for his significant contributions to the Romantic music era. He is often associated with the continuation of Classical traditions, merging the emotional depth of Romanticism with the structural discipline of earlier styles, particularly those from the Baroque and Classical periods.
Ludwig van Beethoven: Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer and pianist, widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in Western classical music. His works marked a transition between the Classical and Romantic eras, showcasing innovative use of harmony and form, as well as deep emotional expression that influenced future composers and changed the course of music history.
Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor, K. 466: Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor, K. 466, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1785, is one of his most famous piano concertos and showcases the transition from the Classical to Romantic musical styles. This concerto features a darker, more dramatic character than many of Mozart's earlier works, reflecting the influence of Baroque elements such as emotional expression and complex orchestration, while also paving the way for future Romantic composers to explore similar depths of feeling in their music.
Ritornello Form: Ritornello form is a musical structure commonly used in the Baroque period, particularly in concertos and orchestral works, characterized by the alternation between a recurring theme (the ritornello) and contrasting episodes. This form allows for thematic development and improvisation, showcasing both the ensemble and soloists while creating a dynamic dialogue between them.
Sanctus: The Sanctus is a liturgical hymn in the Christian tradition, typically found in the Mass, that begins with the words 'Holy, Holy, Holy.' It is a proclamation of God's holiness and majesty. This term reflects the influence of sacred music during the Baroque period, where composers incorporated elaborate vocal techniques and instrumental accompaniment, establishing a strong connection between spirituality and musical expression that continued to evolve into the Classical and Romantic eras.
Sturm und drang: Sturm und Drang, translating to 'storm and stress', was a German literary and musical movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotional expression and individualism. This movement arose as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the formalism of classical music, fostering a new appreciation for intense feelings and dramatic contrasts in art. It played a significant role in shaping the transition from Baroque music to Classical and later Romantic styles by introducing expressive depth and complexity.
Symphonie fantastique: Symphonie fantastique is a program symphony composed by Hector Berlioz in 1830 that is known for its vivid storytelling through music, depicting the emotional journey of an artist's unrequited love and the resulting opium-induced dreams. This piece marked a significant shift in orchestral music, showcasing the influence of Romanticism, while also drawing from earlier Baroque techniques such as thematic development and orchestration.
Symphony No. 41 'Jupiter': Symphony No. 41, commonly known as 'Jupiter,' is the final symphony composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1788 and is celebrated for its grand scale and intricate counterpoint. This symphony reflects both Baroque influences and Classical ideals, showcasing a complex interplay of themes and an innovative orchestration that elevates the genre, linking the expressive techniques of the Baroque period with the clarity and balance characteristic of Classical music.
Terraced dynamics: Terraced dynamics refers to a style of musical expression that features abrupt changes in volume, rather than gradual crescendos or decrescendos. This technique is prominent in Baroque music, where contrasting sections are often marked by sudden shifts between loud and soft passages, creating a dramatic and engaging listening experience.
Violin concerto in e minor, op. 64: The violin concerto in e minor, op. 64 is a celebrated concerto composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1844, recognized for its lyrical melodies and virtuosic demands on the solo violinist. This work showcases the transition from the Baroque to Classical and Romantic styles, incorporating elements from both periods while establishing a distinctively emotional character. Its structure and thematic development reflect the influences of earlier composers while paving the way for future romantic concertos.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was an influential Austrian composer of the Classical era, renowned for his mastery in various musical forms, including symphonies, operas, and chamber music. His work exemplifies the transition from Baroque to Classical aesthetics, blending complex counterpoint with clarity and balance. Mozart's compositions show the lingering influence of Baroque styles while also paving the way for the emotional expressiveness that would characterize Romantic music.
Word painting: Word painting is a musical technique where the music reflects the literal meaning of the lyrics, enhancing the emotional expression and storytelling in a composition. This technique often involves using melodic lines, harmonies, and rhythms that align closely with the text, creating vivid imagery and bringing words to life in a way that engages the listener's imagination. It is a significant feature in early vocal music, particularly in the transition from monody to the more expressive bel canto style, and it has continued to influence musical expression into later periods.