What Makes Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" Worth Listening?

The early 18th century's most well-known music is Antonio Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons," which is uplifting, cheery, and frequently heard in movies and television advertising. But why does it sound that way, and what does it mean? Betsy Schwarm’s research reveals the underlying narrative of this musical masterpiece.

Bright, cheery, and light. Some of the music from the early 18th century is among the most well-known that was composed by Vivaldi. Numerous movies and television ads have used it, but what is it and why does it sound that way? The beginning of "Spring" from Antonio Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" can be heard here. The fact that "The Four Seasons" are a joy to listen to contributes to their fame.

Even more noteworthy, though, is the fact that they have tales to share. When they were first published in Amsterdam in 1725, they were accompanied by texts that outlined the specific characteristics of that season that Vivaldi wanted to musically represent. Vivaldi was decades ahead of his time in giving instrumental music specific plot material.

The poetry scenes and the musical imagery would synchronize well if one were to read the poems while also listening to the music. Birds are said to usher in the spring with joyful song, and here they are doing just that. But shortly after, a thunderstorm appears. Not only is there thunder and lightning that is melodious, but there are also more wet, frightened, and unhappy birds.

Before a hailstorm levels the fields, the turtle dove sings her Italian name, "Tortorella," in the song "Summer." Autumn heralds the arrival of eager hunters scurrying off in search of their prey. As the "Winter" concerto opens, the cold causes teeth to chatter before seeking solace beside a roaring fire. After that, it's back outside into the blizzard, where there will be ice slides and falls.

The previous year is winding down in these first few weeks of the new one, and Vivaldi's musical examination of the seasons is doing the same. Such expressive instrumental program music, as it was termed, did not become common until the early 19th century. By that time, larger, more diverse ensembles with woodwinds, brass, and percussion to assist tell the story were the norm. However, Vivaldi accomplished it using just a harpsichord, strings, and a single violin.

Contrary to Bach, who was one of his contemporaries, Vivaldi had little interest in intricate fugues. He preferred to provide his listeners with easily digestible enjoyment through melodies that reappear later in a piece to serve as a reminder of our previous location. As a result, the spring motif that opens and concludes the "Spring" concerto's first movement are both slightly altered from when they were initially heard.

It was a brilliant strategy for drawing crowds, and Vivaldi, who is regarded as one of the most electrifying violinists of the early 18th century, was aware of the importance of doing so. He might be the featured violinist at such performances. Others showcased the aspiring musicians from the Pietà, a girls' school in Venice where Vivaldi served as the Director of Music. The majority of the pupils were orphans.

Not only were social skills for young females expected to be learned through music lessons, but there were also potential careers for those who might not make successful marriages. Vivaldi's music provided entertainment for everyone, not just the wealthy aristocracy, even in his own day. It's a strategy that is still effective 300 years later, and Vivaldi's music still has the sound of trotting horses in motion.