What is a Ritornello?

A ritornello refers specifically to a recurring theme or passage in a musical composition, often used in the context of Baroque concertos. In this form, the ritornello is typically played by the full orchestra, acting as a frame around the soloist's sections.

In the structure of many Baroque compositions, the ritornello appears at regular intervals, creating a cohesive and familiar feature throughout the movement. This use of a repeated instrumental passage helps to establish thematic unity and is indeed seen as providing a pause or transition between contrasting sections, such as the soloist’s elaborate passages.

Understanding this concept is crucial in analyzing Baroque music, as it distinctly shapes the listener's experience by highlighting the contrasts between the solo and full orchestra parts, allowing for both variety and familiarity throughout the piece.