Meaning of Viola Bastarda in Music
The term "viola bastarda" refers to both an instrument and a style of playing that is one of the crowning achievements of musical mannerism. Viola bastarda music is written for standard viol tuning, in fourths with a viol, indicating a change in understanding of the term. It is a virtuosic style of viol music, where a likely smallish bass viol would play a highly expressive and ornamented solo part.
The viola bastarda emerged during the late Renaissance in Italy and was characterized by its expressive and ornamental style of playing. It was often performed on a small bass viol, which had six strings and was tuned more like a lute or guitar, facilitating the playing of chords. The term "bastarda" may have been used to indicate the unconventional and innovative nature of the music.
The viola bastarda style of playing involved intricate ornamentation, improvisation, and virtuosic techniques. Performers would add embellishments, trills, and other expressive elements to the music, showcasing their technical skill and musicality This style of playing was highly regarded and considered one of the highlights of musical mannerism.
It is worth noting that the term "viola bastarda" may have evolved over time, and its exact meaning and usage can vary depending on the context and historical period.
The continental equivalent of the English division viol, the viola bastarda is a small bass viol of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Leave a Reply