Definition

1. Noun:
   • A baroque musical composition (usually for a keyboard instrument) characterized by full chords and rapid, elaborate runs in a rhythmically free style.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D minor is one of the most famous organ works.
  • The pianist performed a brilliant toccata as an encore.
  • The composer wrote a toccata to showcase the performer's virtuosity.

Advanced Usage

• "In the style of a toccata": Describing a piece or passage of music that shares the free, improvisatory, and technically demanding character of a toccata, even if not formally titled as one.
  • The final movement of the sonata is written in the style of a toccata.

Variants and Related Words

• Toccatina (n): A short or small toccata.
  • The student performed a charming toccatina.

Synonyms

• Virtuoso piece: A composition designed to display technical skill.
• Prelude: An introductory piece, though typically more structured than a toccata's free style.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• None commonly associated. The term is specific to musical terminology.

Noun

1. a baroque musical composition (usually for a keyboard instrument) with full chords and rapid elaborate runs in a rhythmically free style