The Baroque Era (c.1600-1750)

Fugue

Although they developed in the Baroque era, fugues have been written ever since; this playlist starts with three Baroque fugues, then one Classical, one Romantic and two Twentieth Century fugues.

Chorale Prelude

Based on Chorale melodies (see next playlist), often (but not always) contrapuntal and always written for the pipe organ

Chorale

A German hymn tune, sung by choirs and Homophonic in texture. Heard in Passions and Cantatas, especially those by J.S.Bach.

Concerto Grosso

A type of concerto in which a group of soloists (CONCERTINO) is combined and contrasted with a larger group (RIPIENO). Often features a repeated theme known as a RITORNELLO.

Oratorio

Usually a story from the Bible set to music for soloists, chorus and orchestra.  It may include recitatives, arias, duets and chorus.  It is performed without acting or stage design. This playlist includes a Recitative (accompanied by Basso Continuo - this is very common) a Chorus and two Da Capo Arias.

Recitative

In this playlist, there are six examples of the form of 'sung speech' known as recitative. The first four, as is most common, are accompanied by Basso Continuo, and come respectively from an Opera, an Oratorio, a Passion and a Cantata. The last two come from an Opera and an Oratorio respectively and are accompanied by orchestra - this is less common but not unusual.