What is a Ripieno?

Ripieno is a term relating to Concerto Grosso, a style of music that was very important in the Baroque period of Western Art Music. A Concerto Grosso contains three main elements - the Ripieno being one of these. It describes the main, larger group of ensemble instruments. The other two elements are the Concertino and the Basso Continuo. The Concertino is the smaller group of solo instruments. Basso Continuo describes the bass line played in a Concerto Grosso, which could be played by double bass, cello, viola or a number of other instruments, depending on what instruments were available. On top of the bass line, the harpsichord (sometimes even a lute or organ) would fill in harmonies based on that bass line. This bass line and harmony would provide the foundation on which the melody sits.

DM
Answered by David M. Music tutor

15422 Views

See similar Music A Level tutors

Related Music A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a recitative?


In a Bach chorale, how do I know which type of perfect cadence to use?


How do you draw insightful comparisons between contrasting pieces?


When the question asks what 'harmonic device' is being used, what does it mean?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning