Two forms of the Baroque Concerto include the 'concerto grosso' or the 'solo concerto'.
Concerto Grosso
The concerto grosso appeared in the late 17th century, and is one of the most important forms of concerto in Baroque music. It is characterised by a small group of soloists – called ‘concertino’ or ‘principale’ - accompanied by a full orchestra – called ‘concerto’, ‘tutti’ or ‘ripieni’.
Solo Concerto
The solo concerto, like the concerto grosso, was one of the last instrumental contributions made to the Baroque period of music. These two forms of music are similar, however the solo concerto uses only one soloist as opposed to a group against the full orchestra.
The Four Seasons is a solo concerto. This is because it features a principal violinist along with a full string orchestra.
The Four Seasons is a solo concerto. This is because it features a principal violinist along with a full string orchestra.