Italian Concerto facts for kids

The "Italian" Concerto is a famous piece of music for the harpsichord. It was written by the well-known composer Johann Sebastian Bach.

Bach published this concerto in 1735. It was part of a collection called Keyboard Practice, which also included his French Overture. Both pieces show how Bach took popular music styles of his time and made them his own. The Italian Concerto has three main parts, called movements. It was specially written for a harpsichord that has two keyboards, or "manuals."

What is the Italian Concerto?

The "Italian" Concerto is a special kind of concerto. In a traditional concerto, a single instrument (like a violin or piano) plays solo parts. It then plays together with a full orchestra. Bach created this same effect using just one instrument: the harpsichord.

He did this by using the harpsichord's two keyboards. One keyboard acted like the "full orchestra." The other keyboard acted like the "solo instrument." This allowed Bach to create a rich sound with lots of contrast.

The Three Movements

The "Italian" Concerto has three parts, or movements. Each movement has its own unique feel and speed.

First Movement: Fast and Lively

The first movement is written in the key of F major. It has a quick, lively feel, like a dance. Even though Bach didn't write a specific speed mark, it is always played Allegro. This means it should be played very fast.

This movement uses a style called ritornello. This means a main musical idea, or theme, keeps coming back throughout the piece. It's like a catchy chorus in a song.

Second Movement: Slow and Expressive

The second movement is in the key of D minor. It is much slower and more thoughtful than the first movement. Its speed is marked Andante, which means it should be played at a walking pace.

This part of the concerto is very expressive. It sounds a bit like a beautiful song, almost like someone singing. It has many fancy musical decorations.

Third Movement: Very Fast and Exciting

The third movement returns to the key of F major. It is very fast and exciting. Its speed is marked Presto, meaning it should be played extremely quickly.

Like the first movement, this part also uses the ritornello style. The main musical theme comes back again and again. This makes the movement feel very energetic and brings the concerto to a thrilling end.

See also

In Spanish: Concierto italiano, BWV 971 para niños