Composer

:

John Playford

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

6:14

"A Division on a Ground" is a popular piece of music composed by John Playford, an English music publisher, in the 17th century. The piece is a set of variations on a ground bass, which is a repeating melody played in the bass line. It was first published in Playford's collection of dance tunes, "The English Dancing Master," in 1651. The piece is typically performed on a string instrument, such as a violin or viola, accompanied by a continuo instrument, such as a harpsichord or lute. It consists of several movements, each of which is a variation on the ground bass. The variations are characterized by their use of ornamentation, such as trills and grace notes, and their varying tempos and rhythms. The first movement of "A Division on a Ground" is a simple statement of the ground bass, played in the bass line. The second movement is a variation on the ground bass, featuring a faster tempo and more complex rhythms. The third movement is a slower, more lyrical variation, featuring more ornamentation and a more elaborate melody. The fourth movement is a lively dance, featuring a faster tempo and a more complex rhythm. The final movement of "A Division on a Ground" is a virtuosic variation, featuring rapid runs and intricate ornamentation. This movement is often considered the highlight of the piece, showcasing the performer's technical skill and musicality. Overall, "A Division on a Ground" is a charming and lively piece of music, typical of the English Baroque period. Its use of a repeating ground bass and variations on that bass is a common feature of Baroque music, and its lively dance rhythms and ornamentation make it a popular choice for both performers and audiences.

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