Meaning & use
ritornello form music
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Meaning
noununcountabletechnicalmusic
A musical structure where a main theme returns several times, alternating with contrasting sections.
Grammar: Used as a singular noun; often preceded by 'in' to describe a piece: 'in ritornello form'.
Patterns
- in ritornello form
- use ritornello form
The concerto's first movement is in ritornello form.
Bach often used ritornello form in his concertos.
In ritornello form, the main theme is played by the full orchestra.
Common combinations
- ritornello form movement
- The ritornello form movement opens with a lively theme.
- use of ritornello form
- The composer's use of ritornello form is masterful.
- ritornello form structure
- The ritornello form structure gives the piece a sense of unity.
Synonyms and how they differ
- ritornello
- Refers to the recurring theme itself, not the overall form.
- rondo form
- Similar in having a returning theme, but rondo is typically used for separate movements, while ritornello form is common in Baroque concertos.
Word family
- ritornello noun
- The recurring musical passage in this form.
Commonly confused: ritornello form music or rondo?
ritornello form music vs rondo
Rondo also features a recurring theme, but it is a distinct form often used in classical sonatas and symphonies.
Practice
In which period was ritornello form most commonly used?
Choose one answer.
Ritornello form was a hallmark of the Baroque concerto, especially in the works of Vivaldi and Bach.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “ritornello form music”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.