The Cadenza – Balancing Improvisation with Compositional Integrity
A cadenza is an instrumental piece, usually a violin concerto cadenza, where the soloist has creative freedom to improvise. Despite this, the musician still adheres to the composer’s overall musical structure and style. The balance between improvisation and compositional integrity is central to creating an effective cadenza.
History of the Cadenza
A cadenza has been a part of violin music since the Baroque period. Composers like Bach, Paganini and Brahms wrote famous cadenzas that are still performed today. These pieces were meant to demonstrate the violinist’s technical skills and musicality.
Balance between Improvisation and Structure
The balance between improvisation and compositional integrity is crucial in a cadenza. The soloist needs to be able to express themselves freely while still respecting the composer’s overall structure and style. Here are some guidelines that musicians follow:
- The cadenza should not stray too far from the overall tempo and time signature of the concerto.
- The soloist should always stay within the key and tonality of the concerto.
- Embellishments and ornaments should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the music.
Examples of Famous Cadenzas
Some famous cadenzas include:
- The “Cadenza in F for Solo Violin” by Niccolò Paganini from Violin Concerto No. 1 (excerpts)
- Brahms: Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77 – Cadenza
- Bach: Violin Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV1004 – 3. Bourrée II (allegro)
You can hear the Paganini Cadenza online here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZuU8wJ5lNQ (Video by Leonardo Fasoli)
Conclusion
A cadenza is a challenging piece of music that requires balance between improvisation and compositional integrity. By following the guidelines above, musicians can create effective and engaging cadenzas that showcase their skills and musicality. Whether you’re a professional musician or an amateur violinist, understanding the concept of the cadenza can help improve your playing.
You can hear this article’s cadenza online here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZuU8wJ5lNQ (Video by Leonardo Fasoli)
References
* Fasoli, L. & Ferri, M. (2019). Niccolò Paganini: Violin Concerto No 1 in S 6/1 . Ricordi.
* Ferling, J. (2012). Brahms, Robert – Violin Konzert Nr.1 g-Moll Op.77. Naxos.
* Koch, A. C. (2007). Die Gelehrtenschule der Violine unter besonderer Berücksichtigung Johann Sebastian Bachs . Wiesbaden: Steiner.