Q1.
In the 17th century, despite of popularity of polyphonic music, the solo violin in genre of violin sonatas was generally supported by keyboard, and basso continuo that could be cello or viola da gamba. Left hands of keyboard were treated as bass line along with the basso continuo. Because harpsichord had plucking strings with small quill, it was impossible for the keyboard to sustain notes. The basso continuo took the role of supporting the weakness of harpsichord. Composers made basso continuo to hold or sustain notes so that solo instruments could play along with more support from the bass. Violin was composers’ choice as a solo instrument. Its characteristic such as voice-like sound, wide pitch range, and strength of its sounds were enough to convince composers. There were no other instruments that are more adequate to take role of monody than violin in 17th century. …show more content…
Some scholar praised him for “Calculation, control, and sensitivity” in his work. He was a composer as well as a well-known violinist. He knew that violin can generate complex melody in fast-moving pace, while other instruments, such as harpsichord, and basso continuo hit important bass lines and notes. One of very good example that shows the role of violin and style in the 17th century is Corelli’s Sonata in D major op.5 no.1. Musical style of this work can be described as “free virtuosity”. The performer has to pay attention to how Corelli carefully composed this work in marvelous improvisation. The Baroque violin players were supposed to have sprit of improvisation in their mind and technique in which most modern players