Ricercar
Baroque works
Definition
A contrapuntal keyboard work in which a subject (or multiple subjects) is explored through systematic imitative treatment across multiple sections. Related to the fantasia but typically more austere, with longer note values and a more reserved character.
Historical Context
The ricercar emerged in the 16th century as a serious instrumental counterpart to the motet. By Froberger's generation it had developed into a multi-section work exploring each subject in turn through imitative counterpoint. Froberger's ricercars are distinguished by their economy of means and expressive depth despite their learned, contrapuntal character. The genre fed directly into the Baroque fugue.
Works (12)
- Ricercar in A minor, FbWV 404 Key A minor
- Ricercar in C major, FbWV 405 Key C major
- Ricercar in C minor, FbWV 401 Key C minor
- Ricercar in D minor, FbWV 402 Key D minor
- Ricercar in D minor, FbWV 407 Key D minor
- Ricercar in D minor, FbWV 411 Key D minor
- Ricercar in E minor, FbWV 409 Key E minor
- Ricercar in F major, FbWV 406 Key F major
- Ricercar in F♯ minor, FbWV 412 Key F♯ minor
- Ricercar in G major, FbWV 410 Key G major
- Ricercar in G minor, FbWV 403 Key G minor
- Ricercar in G minor, FbWV 408 Key G minor