How much rubato is acceptable in Baroque keyboard music?

Rubato, or expressive tempo flexibility, is a delicate matter in Baroque keyboard music. While some flexibility is acceptable, excessive rubato can compromise the music's structural integrity and stylistic authenticity. In Baroque music, a moderate amount of rubato is suitable for: 1. Emotional expression: Adding nuance and feeling to melodies, especially in slower movements. 2. Rhetorical emphasis: Highlighting important musical ideas or cadences. 3. Ornamentation: Accommodating intricate ornaments and trills. However, excessive rubato can lead to: 1. Distortion of rhythm and meter 2. Disruption of the music's forward momentum 3. Loss of clarity and articulation As a general guideline, consider the following: - In faster movements, maintain a relatively steady tempo, with subtle rubato for emphasis. - In slower movements, more expressive rubato is acceptable, but avoid excessive slowing or dragging. - In general, aim for a balance between expression and structural integrity. Some notable Baroque keyboard performers and their approaches to rubato include: - Gustav Leonhardt (harpsichord): subtle, restrained rubato - Glenn Gould (piano): distinctive, expressive rubato - Ton Koopman (harpsichord): nuanced, flexible rubato Remember, the key is to find a balance between expression and authenticity, respecting the composer's intent while adding your own musicality. read less

In Baroque keyboard music, including works by composers like Bach, the use of **rubato** (a flexible approach to timing, where the performer slows down or speeds up for expressive effect) is generally more restrained compared to later Romantic music. However, some level of rubato is acceptable, provided it is subtle and maintains the structure and character of the piece. Here are some key guidelines for rubato in Baroque music: 1. **Emphasis on Structure and Rhythm**: Baroque music relies heavily on clear rhythms and structured phrasing, especially in dances and fugues. Excessive rubato that disrupts the underlying pulse or regularity of the music can be considered inappropriate. 2. **Expressiveness in Vocal Lines**: In more lyrical, vocal-style movements, such as **arias** or **slow movements** from suites or sonatas, performers can apply gentle rubato. This should enhance the musical line rather than overpower the strict rhythmic structure. 3. **Tasteful Ornamentation**: Baroque musicians were expected to add embellishments and ornaments, and slight rhythmic flexibility may be used to highlight these ornaments or give emphasis to key harmonic moments. 4. **Subtlety**: If rubato is used, it should generally be very subtle and in service of the music’s expression rather than a display of personal interpretation. The flow of the music should remain coherent and rhythmically grounded. In short, while rubato can be applied in Baroque keyboard music, it must be done with restraint, sensitivity to the style, and respect for the music's formal structure. Rubato in this period serves to enhance, not overshadow, the music’s natural flow and rhythm. read less