ritornello Definition
- 1a short instrumental refrain or interlude in a vocal work
- 2a recurring theme or passage in a musical composition
Using ritornello: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ritornello" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ritornello in the concerto was particularly beautiful.
Example
The composer used a simple but effective ritornello throughout the piece.
Example
The singer repeated the ritornello several times during the song.
ritornello Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with ritornello
a musical structure in which a recurring instrumental passage alternates with contrasting sections played by soloists or singers
Example
The Baroque concerto grosso often uses the ritornello form.
a compositional technique in which a short instrumental passage is repeated throughout a piece, creating unity and coherence
Example
Bach's use of the ritornello technique in his Brandenburg Concertos is masterful.
the psychological phenomenon in which a repeated musical phrase or pattern becomes more pleasing or enjoyable over time
Example
The ritornello effect can be observed in many popular songs that use simple, catchy melodies.
Origins of ritornello
from Italian 'ritornello', meaning 'little return'
Summary: ritornello in Brief
The term 'ritornello' [ˌrētərˈnelō] refers to a short instrumental refrain or interlude in a vocal work, or a recurring theme or passage in a musical composition. It is often used in the context of Baroque music, such as the ritornello form and ritornello technique. The ritornello effect is a psychological phenomenon in which a repeated musical phrase or pattern becomes more pleasing over time.
