13.1 Baroque instruments and their modern counterparts

Baroque instruments differed significantly from their modern counterparts. Strings used gut, woodwinds had fewer keys, and brass lacked valves. These design features created a warmer, softer sound that defined the Baroque era's musical character.

The continuo section, led by harpsichord and lute, provided the harmonic foundation for Baroque ensembles. Modern performances using period instruments face challenges but offer an authentic sound experience, giving listeners a glimpse into the original intentions of Baroque composers.

String, Woodwind, and Brass Instruments

Baroque vs modern instruments

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Top images from around the web for Baroque vs modern instruments

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  Woodwinds | Music Appreciation View original

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• 

  | Music Charts for the Classroom Laminated Gloss Paper measuring 850mm x 594mm Brass Instruments ... View original

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• 

  List of period instruments - Wikipedia View original

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  Woodwinds | Music Appreciation View original

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  | Music Charts for the Classroom Laminated Gloss Paper measuring 850mm x 594mm Brass Instruments ... View original

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• String instruments
  • Baroque
    • Used gut strings which produce a warmer, softer sound
    • Featured shorter necks affecting left-hand technique and fingering positions
    • Had flatter bridges impacting string tension and sound production
    • Employed lighter bows requiring a different bowing technique (spiccato)
  • Modern
    • Utilize metal strings for increased volume, projection, and durability
    • Have longer necks facilitating higher positions and extended range
    • Feature curved bridges allowing for greater string tension and sound projection
    • Use heavier bows enabling a wider range of articulation and dynamics (legato)
• Woodwind instruments
  • Baroque
    • Had fewer keys limiting chromatic possibilities and requiring alternate fingerings
    • Possessed a limited range compared to modern instruments
    • Utilized different fingering systems varying by maker and region
    • Produced a softer, more mellow sound due to construction materials and design
  • Modern
    • Contain more keys expanding chromatic capabilities and facilitating technique
    • Boast an extended range thanks to additional keys and improved bore design
    • Employ standardized fingering systems enabling easier transition between instruments
    • Generate a brighter, more projecting sound suitable for larger ensembles and venues
• Brass instruments
  • Baroque
    • Lacked valves limiting the available notes to the harmonic series
    • Had a limited range due to the absence of valves and smaller bore size
    • Featured a smaller bore size contributing to a softer, more mellow sound
    • Required different embouchure and breath support techniques
  • Modern
    • Incorporate valves allowing for chromatic playing and extended range
    • Possess an extended range thanks to valves and larger bore size
    • Showcase a larger bore size producing a brighter, more projecting sound
    • Demand a more flexible embouchure and greater breath support for control

Design impact on Baroque sound

• Gut strings on Baroque string instruments
  • Produce a warmer, softer sound compared to modern metal strings
  • Require a lighter bowing technique to avoid overloading the strings
• Shorter necks and flatter bridges on Baroque string instruments
  • Affect left-hand technique by requiring different fingering positions
  • Impact string tension and sound production, resulting in a mellower tone
• Fewer keys on Baroque woodwind instruments
  • Limit chromatic possibilities, necessitating alternate fingerings and creative solutions
  • Require different fingering techniques adapted to the instrument's design
• Smaller bore size on Baroque brass instruments
  • Produces a softer, more mellow sound compared to modern larger bore instruments
  • Affects embouchure and breath support, demanding a different approach to sound production

Continuo Instruments and Period Performance

Roles of continuo instruments

• Harpsichord
  • Provides the harmonic foundation for the ensemble by realizing the figured bass
  • Assumes a leadership role, often directing the ensemble from the keyboard
  • Offers a crisp, articulate sound but is incapable of producing dynamic contrast
  • Frequently engages in improvisation and embellishment of the written score
• Lute
  • Provides harmonic support by realizing the figured bass alongside the harpsichord
  • Adds textural variety and depth to the continuo section with its unique timbre
  • Offers a softer, more intimate sound capable of limited dynamic contrast
  • Collaborates with other continuo instruments in improvisation and ornamentation
• Both
  • Serve as essential components of the Baroque ensemble's foundation
  • Improvise and ornament based on the figured bass, showcasing the era's improvisatory spirit
  • Collaborate with each other and other continuo instruments (cello, bassoon) to create a cohesive harmonic structure

Period instruments in modern performances

• Challenges
  • Limited availability of period instruments and the expertise required to maintain them
  • Necessity for musicians to master unfamiliar playing techniques specific to period instruments
  • Adapting to different tuning systems (meantone temperament) used in the Baroque era
  • Overcoming the limited dynamic range and projection of period instruments in modern concert settings
• Benefits
  • Offers an authentic sound and timbre, allowing listeners to experience the music as the composers intended
  • Promotes historically informed performance practice, shedding light on the era's musical conventions
  • Encourages the rediscovery of forgotten playing techniques and performance practices
  • Provides insight into the composers' original intentions and the context in which the music was created
  • Creates a unique and engaging listening experience for audiences, showcasing the distinct character of Baroque music