Composer

:

Antonio Vivaldi

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1716

Average_duration

:

107:09

Movement_count

:

36

Movement ....

Antonio Vivaldi's 'La stravaganza, violin concertos (12), Op. 4' is a collection of twelve violin concertos that were composed in 1712 and published in Amsterdam in 1725. The premiere of the concertos is not known, but it is believed that they were performed in Venice, where Vivaldi was working at the time. The twelve concertos are divided into four groups of three, each with its own unique character and style. The first group of concertos is characterized by their fast tempos and virtuosic solo passages, while the second group features slower, more lyrical melodies. The third group is notable for its use of unusual harmonies and rhythms, and the fourth group is marked by its use of complex counterpoint and fugues. One of the most distinctive features of 'La stravaganza' is Vivaldi's use of the solo violin as the primary instrument in each concerto. The solo violin is given ample opportunity to showcase its technical prowess, with fast runs, trills, and other virtuosic techniques featured prominently throughout the collection. Another notable characteristic of 'La stravaganza' is Vivaldi's use of programmatic elements in several of the concertos. For example, the third concerto in the collection, titled "Il Grosso Mogul," is said to depict the Indian emperor Aurangzeb, while the fifth concerto, titled "La Tempesta di Mare," evokes the sound of a storm at sea. Overall, 'La stravaganza' is a masterful collection of violin concertos that showcases Vivaldi's skill as a composer and his innovative approach to the form. Its enduring popularity among both performers and audiences is a testament to its enduring appeal and the enduring legacy of Vivaldi's music.

More....