Due Thursday, Oct. 11, 2001
Look over the pages in the Wright text devoted to a discussion of the basso continuo (98-99; 110-111). Prepare a short performance featuring a basso continuo or its contemporary equivalent in class on Thursday October 11. You may choose to perform a Baroque continuo or demonstrate the similarities between the Baroque continuo and harmonic/bass structures in other styles. For example, how is realizing a figured bass on the harpsichord rather like comping at the piano in a jazz ensemble?
The continuo part need not be performed only on keyboard instruments; rather any instrument capable of producing chords may be used along with a solo bass instrument. You may choose to work in groups. Guitarists, bass players, harpists, bassoon players, cellists, trombonists, as well as pianists, organists, and harpsichord players could attempt this exercise. Vocalists and all other solo instruments could realize the melody in the composite texture.
Works by composers from Monteverdi, Gabrieli, Purcell, Corelli, Vivaldi, J.S. Bach, and others writing in the Baroque style are possibilities. You may substitute instruments as necessary. The performance should not be longer than a single movement.