Question

The Latin word concertare, meaning to fight or contend, is the basis for the word concerto. This concept is demonstrated through

A. music played loudly enough to drown out noisy crowds.
B. woodwinds alternating with drums.
C. music that was forbidden by the government.
D. alternating ensembles of contrasting size.

Answer 1

Answer:

The answer is D) Alternating ensembles of contrasting size

Explanation:

The etymology of the word concerto can be traced back to two different Latin words, one is Conserere (to tie, join, or agreement) and the other is Concerto, concertare, concertatus (to contend, competition or fight). This derivation probably comes from the idea that the two parts in a concerto (the soloist and the orchestra or concert band) alternate between opposition, cooperation and independence to create a sense of flow. So it's a constant alternation of ensembles (the soloist-s and orchestra) back and forth, varying in size and sound.