Illustrated Theory of Music: Appoggiatura

Welcome to the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s, ‘Illustrated Theory of Music’. This series of short, informal videos animate the stories behind music theory and provoke new questions about what we think we know. What does a ‘quaver’ really mean? Why do we use bars? Why does it have to be so slow? The series is led by the OAE’s dedicated musicians but audiences are invited to ask questions, challenge conventional wisdom and help to build a new understanding of music. Please share your thoughts in the comment box below!

In this episode, oboe Leo Duarte ventures through the history of the Appoggiatura and the many disagreements and confusion that it has caused along the way! Leo demonstrates how and where the embellishment can be used on oboe and oboe da caccia. You can find out more about our unusual-looking wind instrument here.

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