Music A-Level
Ritornello
What Ritornello means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Ritornello
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Reference: AQA
A recurring main theme played by the full orchestra (tutti) that establishes the main thematic material and often returns abbreviated and in different related keys.
Topics that use Ritornello
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Antecedent phrase
- Antiphonal texture
- Aria
- Articulation
- Balanced phrases
- Bass suspension
- Basso continuo
- Binary form
Using Ritornello in the exam
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