ricercare: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low (Specialist/Technical)Formal, Academic, Musicological
Quick answer
What does “ricercare” mean?
A type of intricate, polyphonic instrumental composition from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, often contrapuntal and imitative.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of intricate, polyphonic instrumental composition from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, often contrapuntal and imitative.
In modern usage, can refer to a scholarly or artistic pursuit involving deep, detailed investigation, akin to 'research' but with connotations of artistic or musical exploration.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant regional differences in meaning or usage, as it is a highly specialized term used identically in international academic discourse.
Connotations
In both regions, it connotes historical depth, scholarly precision, and musical erudition.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general language; frequency is identical and confined to specialist texts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “ricercare” in a Sentence
[composer] composed a ricercare [for instrument]The ricercare [features/employs] [musical technique]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “ricercare” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not used as a verb in English.
American English
- Not used as a verb in English.
adverb
British English
- Not used as an adverb in English.
American English
- Not used as an adverb in English.
adjective
British English
- Not used as an adjective in English.
American English
- Not used as an adjective in English.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in music history, theory, and performance practice papers. 'The ricercare represents a key precursor to the fugue.'
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in historical musicology and early music performance. Discusses structure, mode, and ornamentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “ricercare”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “ricercare”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “ricercare”
- Using it as a fancy synonym for 'research' in non-musical contexts.
- Mispronouncing it as 'rye-ser-care'.
- Confusing it with 'recitative'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, both derive from the Italian 'ricercare' meaning 'to search again or seek out'. However, in modern English, they are distinct: 'research' is the general activity, while 'ricercare' is a specific historical musical term.
No, it would be incorrect and confusing. Use 'research' or 'investigation' instead. 'Ricercare' should only be used in the context of Renaissance/Baroque music.
A ricercare is generally considered a precursor to the fugue. It tends to be more serious, slower, and often maintains a single subject throughout, while the fugue is a more developed and structured form with clearer episodes and subject entries.
No. It is known only to musicians, musicologists, and enthusiasts of early music. The average English speaker will not know this word.
A type of intricate, polyphonic instrumental composition from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, often contrapuntal and imitative.
Ricercare is usually formal, academic, musicological in register.
Ricercare: in British English it is pronounced /ˌrɪtʃəˈkɑːreɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌritʃərˈkɑreɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'REsearch' in music – a RICERcare is a deeply 'searched' or explored musical piece.
Conceptual Metaphor
MUSICAL COMPOSITION IS INTELLECTUAL INVESTIGATION (the piece 'searches' for thematic development).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'ricercare' primarily?