What is Continuo? Continuo (or Basso Continuo) is one of the defining characteristics of Baroque music. It is that ever-present bass line played by a keyboard instrument (harpsichord or organ) and the cello and double bass. It is what makes the tuttis (when everyone plays together) thrilling and the harmonies grounded. Continuo parts consist of … Continue reading The Importance of Continuo
Tag: instruments
The Recorder
You might have been taught the recorder in school as a child. The recorder is an easy instrument to learn but a hard one to stick with. The modern recorder doesn’t play in a symphony orchestra, or most post-Baroque ensembles. However, in Baroque music the recorder is just as important as any other instrument. There … Continue reading The Recorder
The Difference Between Baroque and Modern Violins
Baroque violins sound different from their modern counterparts, partly because they are played with a different technique, and partly because true "period instruments" are built differently to be more historically accurate. Baroque violins are generally softer in volume than modern violins, and warmer in tone. The reason for this is largely due to their having … Continue reading The Difference Between Baroque and Modern Violins
The Next Vivaldi Project 