The Viola Part in the Concerti Op. VI View larger

The Viola Part in the Concerti Op. VI

Author Pierre-Alain Braye-Weppe
Editor Guido Olivieri e Marc Vanscheeuwijck
Series [Biblioteca Musicale LIM - Saggi]
Size 17×24, pp. XXVIII+538
Year 2015
ISBN 9788870967975

Contrapuntal writing in the Concerti Op. VI is generally based on the trio of ‘two violins and basso continuo’ (even though in Op. I and III the occurrence of a periodic fourth voice does emerge from the Violone ò Arciliuto). However, Corelli gives the viola part such importance that it completely modifies the perfect equilibrium of the trio as well as the overall sonority of the ensemble. Far from serving merely as the effective acoustical «filler» used by certain of his contemporaries, it is an enhancement that affects all the musical parameters: harmony, melody and rhythm, orchestration, etc. The viola part composed in this manner also gives a certain perspective to the continuo players who find a source of inspiration for a more authentic polyphonic realization (though used by Corelli himself). In short, the varied elegance typifying this viola part attracts attention by a double identity that possesses both vocal and instrumental qualities. It reflects and crystallizes the preoccupations of Corelli to use all the techniques of composition (those of the past as well as those of his time) and in turn to make a personal synthesis between them.