24 Essential Examples of Baroque Period Music

The Baroque period of Western art music, spanning roughly from 1600 to 1750, was defined by ornate and intricate compositions, introducing forms like the concerto, oratorio, and opera, characterized by dynamic contrasts, expressive melodies, and intricate polyphony. Preceded by the Renaissance, the Baroque era saw the refinement of Equal Temperament and the development of tonal systems. Composers explored new forms like fugues, concertos, sonatas, operas, oratorios, and cantatas.

Notable Baroque composers include Johann Sebastian Bach, renowned for works like The Well-Tempered Clavier, Brandenburg Concertos, and the St Matthew Passion; George Friederich Handel, known for operas, oratorios, and notably The Messiah; and Antonio Vivaldi, famed for shaping the concerto and The Four Seasons.

Baroque music is recognizable by its contrasting dynamics, ornamental melodies, harpsichord continuo, terraced dynamics, contrapuntal texture, and dance rhythms. Instruments commonly found in Baroque compositions include harpsichords, organs, lutes, viols, sackbuts, baroque flutes, timpani, natural trumpets, chalumeaus, oboes, bassoons, serpents, and recorders. Recognizing these elements can help identify Baroque music, often composed by a handful of renowned individuals, and appreciate its unique characteristics.

For a simple overview of the Baroque period, check out this article.

The following playlists contain the same pieces of Baroque period music. Simply select Spotify or YouTube.