MUSIC 2251 Chapter Notes - Chapter 23: Oratorio, Ritornello, Fugue
19 Oct 2018
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Ch 23 - textures of worship: handel + the english oratorio. Handel"s messiah was widely popular, uncommon for music pre-1700s. Handel"s oratorios combined community worship with political, sacred, and musical power. Oratorio - large-scale dramatic genre w a sacred text performed by solo voices, chorus, + orchestra; it is not staged or costumed. Catholic church wanted oratorios to be a more moral/religious alternative to opera. Libretto - the text of an opera. Written by liked poets, not religious leaders. Written in 24 days, handel working as if possessed . De capo aria - sung by a soloist accompanied by some instruments. Part i: christmas section / 18 soprano aria, rejoice greatly . Melody - lyrical lines, w long melismas on rejoice ; slower 2nd part in a minor key. Form - 3 part (da capo, a-b-a"), w shortened last section; instrumental intro (ritornello) Part ii: easter section / 44 hallelujah chorus .
