Capriccio

Baroque works

Definition

A free, whimsical, or capricious piece that does not follow strict formal rules. May be humorous, brilliant, or unpredictable in character.

Historical Context

From the Italian for 'whim' or 'prank.' Scarlatti's keyboard capriccios, Bach's Capriccio on the Departure of a Beloved Brother, and Brahms's six capriccios in his late collections all demonstrate the form's latitude. The term often implies a lighter touch or unexpected compositional choices.

Works (30)

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