Topmusicanswers
- What is the role of the harpsichord in the Baroque Orchestra?
- How does an orchestra conductor work?
- Which composers used the harpsichord?
- Which composer gave the harpsichord its solo status?
What is the role of the harpsichord in the Baroque Orchestra?
The continuo (or basso continuo) part was usually played on the harpsichord or organ. The instruments were used in the harmonies and for holding the ensemble together. The bassline was often played by the cello or bassoon. The harpsichord is a keyboard instrument where the strings are plucked rather than hammered.
How does an orchestra conductor work?
Conductors act as guides to the orchestras or choirs they conduct. They choose the works to be performed and study their scores, to which they may make certain adjustments (such as in tempo, articulation, phrasing, repetitions of sections), work out their interpretation, and relay their vision to the performers.
Which composers used the harpsichord?
History. Many baroque composers played the harpsichord, including Johann Sebastian Bach, Domenico Scarlatti, George Frideric Handel, François Couperin and Jean-Philippe Rameau.
Which composer gave the harpsichord its solo status?
The harpsichords supposedly owned or played by Handel have long been the subject of scholarly enquiry,1 in recent years mainly to try to match their compasses and disposition to his solo music. This strategy has also been used, for instance, with instruments associated with J. S. Bach and Mozart.
