To capitalize on one of our listening examples today, I have found a fantastic website filled with identifying characteristics of the Baroque Period.
Also, I have posted some Baroque pieces which display those characteristics most evident during this time period. (What a weird sentence... you know what I mean.)
"Spring" from The Four Seasons, by Vivaldi (Italian)
"Air (on a G String)" by J.S. Bach (German)
"When I am laid in Earth" from Dido and Aeneas by Purcell (English)
A quick note about this piece - this is an aria (italian for "song") from the opera Dido and Aeneas, which was the Prescribed Work for those testing in '09 and '10.
0:00 - 0:48 - This section of the piece is a recitative of sorts. The orchestra is only playing cadential figures, while the voice is free to go as fast or slow as needed to pull as much from the text as possible. While it is not TOTALLY ametrical, it certainly isn't following a certain tempo.
0:48 - 4:06 - This is the aria proper, the song with the singable melody and recurring sections. Probably one of the more beautiful melodies ever written. Enjoy.
Coronation Anthem: Zadok The Priest by G.F. Handel
It is important to note that when William becomes the King of England, this will probably be played at his Coronation Ceremony.
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