What does concertante mean?
In music, concertante refers to a composition or movement where one or more solo instruments or groups of instruments take the leading melodic or harmonic role, often in dialogue with a larger ensemble. This can involve a solo instrument or group of instruments trading melodic phrases with a larger ensemble, or a soloist taking the lead in a dialogue with the orchestra. Concertante structures are often found in concertos, but can also be used in other types of compositions. The term is derived from the Italian word 'concerto', meaning 'concert', and is often used to describe a specific type of musical composition or movement. Concertante music often features a high level of technical virtuosity and musical complexity, and is often performed by skilled musicians. The use of concertante structures can add a sense of drama and tension to a musical composition, and can also provide opportunities for musical dialogue and exchange between different instruments or groups of instruments. Overall, concertante is an important term in music, and is used to describe a specific type of composition or movement that is characterized by a high level of musical complexity and technical virtuosity.
adjectiveIn music, concertante refers to a composition or movement where one or more solo instruments or groups of instruments take the leading melodic or harmonic role, often in dialogue with a larger ensemble.
- In music, a composition or movement where one or more solo instruments or groups of instruments take the leading melodic or harmonic role, often in dialogue with a larger ensemble.
"The concerto's concertante structure allowed the violinist to shine in a dialogue with the orchestra."
"The concerto's concertante structure allowed the violinist to shine in a dialogue with the orchestra."
"In a concertante movement, the piano and violin traded melodic phrases with the strings."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of concertante
The term 'concertante' is derived from the Italian word 'concerto', meaning 'concert'. This word is itself derived from the Latin word 'concertare', meaning 'to make music together'. The term 'concertante' has been used in music since the 17th century, and has been used to describe a variety of different musical compositions and movements.
How concertante is actually used
In music, concertante is often used to describe a specific type of composition or movement, but it can also be used more broadly to describe a musical style or approach.