Devil's trill

Definition

The devil's trill is a musical term that refers to a specific ornamentation technique, particularly associated with violin playing. It involves rapid alternation between two notes, creating a distinctive, almost haunting sound that captures the listener's attention. This technique is often linked to the virtuosity of performers and was notably used by composers in the Baroque era, showcasing their innovative approaches to string instruments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The devil's trill is famously associated with the Italian composer Giuseppe Tartini, who claimed that he was inspired to compose a piece featuring this ornamentation after dreaming about a violinist playing for the devil.
2. Tartini's 'Devil's Trill Sonata' is one of the most renowned works that incorporates this technique, demonstrating both technical skill and emotional depth.
3. The term reflects a broader cultural fascination with the supernatural and the devil during the Baroque era, often seen as a metaphor for the struggles between good and evil in artistic expression.
4. As an ornamentation technique, the devil's trill requires exceptional technical ability from performers, contributing to its popularity in showcasing virtuosity during concert performances.
5. This technique influenced many other composers of the time, leading to its incorporation in various musical forms and styles beyond just violin music.

Review Questions

• How does the devil's trill illustrate the innovations made by Italian composers during the Baroque period?
  • The devil's trill exemplifies the innovative spirit of Italian composers by highlighting their focus on virtuosic techniques and emotional expression in music. It reflects a shift towards more elaborate ornamentation that challenged performers and delighted audiences. Composers like Tartini used this technique to enhance their works, showcasing the capabilities of string instruments and establishing new standards for performance.
• Discuss how Tartini's 'Devil's Trill Sonata' serves as an example of the cultural themes present in Baroque music.
  • Tartini's 'Devil's Trill Sonata' embodies cultural themes prevalent in Baroque music, such as the interplay between good and evil. The sonata not only showcases virtuosic skill through its use of the devil's trill but also reflects a fascination with supernatural elements, illustrating how composers engaged with contemporary beliefs and emotions. The vivid storytelling through music connects listeners to deeper philosophical ideas of morality and struggle.
• Evaluate the impact of devil's trill on later developments in violin playing and composition in Western classical music.
  • The devil's trill has had a lasting impact on Western classical music, influencing both violin playing techniques and compositional styles. As musicians adopted this ornamentation, it set new benchmarks for technical excellence and expressive depth. This influence can be traced through various musical eras, as later composers incorporated similar techniques into their works, showcasing the evolution of instrumental music while paying homage to earlier innovations like those seen in Tartini's compositions.

Related terms

Ornamentation: The decorative notes or flourishes added to a melody, enhancing its expressiveness and complexity.

Violin Concerto: A musical composition for violin and orchestra, typically featuring virtuosic passages for the solo violinist.

Baroque Period: A historical period in music from approximately 1600 to 1750, characterized by elaborate musical ornamentation, contrasting elements, and the rise of instrumental music.