Learn Listening Online

Concerto

General information

Concertos are works written for solo instruments and orchestra.

The present day works have their roots in the two styles of concerto from the Baroque period:

  • Concerto Grosso

  • Solo Concertos

Over the coming centuries the form developed to reflect the changes:

  • in instruments

  • style

  • harmony

There are four areas of study within this topic which cover the periods of music in which the concerto has been written.Use the links below or in the navigation bar to access the pages. Any page can be accessed on its own but it is suggested that the best benefit will be gained from following the pages in chronological order.

Remember to read the text thoroughly before listening to the excerpt.

Click on a link below or in the navigation on the left hand page to access the first section of work.

Baroque period - Styles from the Baroque period
Classical period - Find out about the three movements of the Classical period
Romantic period - The romantic period between 1810 and 1905
20th Century - Examples of concertos in the 20th century
Concerto Quiz - Test your knowledge and understanding of the concepts used in this topic

 

Listening to the sound files

All audio clips require Flash player. Click on this trial sound file to check if you have this installed on your computer:

You don't have the latest version of Adobe Flash Player.

Why not download and install the latest version now?

Download the latest flash player

 

We recommend that you use headphones to enjoy the best quality from the sound files.

Check out the Help page if you need any further assistance using the resource.