intermezzi
Definition
- Noun (plural of ):
- A short musical composition: In music, "intermezzi" are brief instrumental pieces that serve as a transition between larger movements or acts of a work, such as an opera or symphony.
- A short dramatic entertainment: In theatre, "intermezzi" refer to short, often comedic or musical interludes performed between the acts of a longer play or opera, especially in the 16th to 18th centuries.
Usage Examples
- Musical interlude:
- The orchestra played two intermezzi during the opera's scene changes. (Brief musical pieces bridging the acts.)
- Theatrical interlude:
- The Renaissance court enjoyed intermezzi with elaborate costumes and dances between the main acts. (Short entertainment segments in a play.)
Advanced Usage
- "Intermezzi" as a genre: In Baroque opera, intermezzi evolved into independent comic works, later influencing the development of opera buffa (comic opera).
- The intermezzi of Pergolesi's "La serva padrona" are famous for their lively and humorous style. (Short comic operatic interludes.)
- In modern contexts: The term can be used metaphorically for any short, interjected piece or event.
- The conference included intermezzi of poetry readings between lectures. (Brief, inserted performances.)
Variants and Related Words
- Intermezzo (singular noun): a single short piece or performance.
- The pianist performed a beautiful intermezzo by Brahms. (A single short musical work.)
- Intermediary (adj/n): something that acts as a link or go-between (related in concept, not form).
- The mediator served as an intermediary between the two parties. (A person who connects others.)
Synonyms
- Interlude: a pause or break in a performance or event.
- Entr'acte: a performance or music between acts of a play or opera.
- Diversion: a brief activity that distracts or entertains.
Related Idioms
- No common idioms directly use "intermezzi," but the concept of "a brief interlude" is similar.
- We took a brief interlude to stretch our legs. (A short break.)