Ritornello

A ritornello (Italian for “return” or “refrain”) is a recurring instrumental passage, often found in Baroque concertos and arias. It provides a structural framework, typically opening the piece, separating solo sections, and concluding it. The ritornello contrasts with the solo sections, showcasing a contrasting musical idea and often featuring a fuller orchestral texture. Its presence establishes a sense of familiarity and cohesion, acting as a unifying element throughout a composition by consistently returning and framing other contrasting sections of music. It can be varied in length and form, or presented differently each time it appears.

Ritornello meaning with examples

• In Bach's Brandenburg Concertos, the ritornello sections, performed by the full orchestra, are robust and joyous, providing a lively contrast to the intricate solo passages. The ritornello grounds the piece, offering the listener familiar sonic landmarks. This helps create a sense of unity in the often complex solo parts of each concerto.
• The opening ritornello of Vivaldi's 'The Four Seasons' depicts the sounds of spring; these recurring passages alternate with virtuosic solo violin parts that paint vivid pictures of birdsong, thunderstorms, and flowing streams. Each ritornello evokes the feel of spring. The composition depends heavily on ritornello form.
• Mozart employed ritornello in many of his concertos, often modifying the ritornello's character during its re-appearances. These changes, as well as the overall use of ritornello allow a piece to maintain a sense of balance and organization and help ensure that the piece is memorable for the listener.
• In opera, a ritornello might appear as a brief instrumental interlude, or a musical bridge, between vocal phrases, or during moments of high emotional intensity. The ritornello may even be a simple theme. The use of ritornello can help establish a sense of atmosphere or provide a commentary on the action.