What Is A Concerto?

The term concerto is commonly referred to as a musical work in which a solo instrument is played along with an orchestra. The concerto, as known in today's world, became famous in the Baroque period along with the concerto grosso. A concerto grosso basically was a small group of instruments played beside the rest of the orchestra.

Thought the concerto grosso is limited to the Baroque period, the solo concerto till date continues as a vital music force. Through the late 16th century there is no clear difference between a concerto and a sinfonia.

Both these terms were commonly used during the 17th century, in Italy, to illustrate voiced music along with instrumental accompaniment.

Giovanni Gabrieli who was a famous Italian composer and organist published motets by means of these terms.