Assignment from October 7th

We discussed Baroque era musical characteristics (1600 AD-1750) in class on Friday. One important aspect of Baroque music is the idea of fortespinnung, which basically means a musical pace that is much like a machine that doesn’t stop. It can be either fast or slow. Below you’ll find a few examples, including a few I played in class, for examples of fortespinnung (pronounced: for-teh-shpin-nungk). Germany and the German states was a hot bed for high Baroque style, so many of the most famous Baroque composers come from those areas.

J.S. Bach “Prelude and Fugue in c minor”
J.S. Bach “Brandenburg Concerto No. 3”
Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” from Messiah an example of both homophony and polyphony
J.S. Bach “Air on the G String” notice the bass part, which is the motor in this slower piece
Handel’s “Giulio Cesare” sung by Beverly Sills a vocal clip that will knock your socks off

We also discussed the “Doctrine of the Affections,” also known as affekt, that may have influenced how people perceived keys and intervals. If you need an extra copy of the handout, please email me and I’ll be happy to send it to you.

Your Assignment this Week: It’s a free week to compose whatever you like, including going back to things you’ve done previously! Any length, any form, any key as long as you take into account the characteristics of the keys we discussed in the philosophy of affekt. Be prepared to discuss why you chose the key you did, and be sure to arrange for any extra players you need ahead of class time. You’ve done a pretty good job of that so far. And remember that Anna and I are also available as players/singers if needed. We’re here to help!