In this version of Mozart's German Dances, the third section of each dance has "Trio." engraved above the staff. What does this indicate?
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1 Answer
It usually means it is the Trio section from a Minuet and Trio form. And, although the beginning of the score you link to is not marked "Minuet", it is in 3/4 and in the style of a Minuet.
Originally the Minuet was a kind of dance, with Minuet also describing the associated 3/4 dance music form. Later it became common to combine this form with a Trio section, creating a longer structure.
When this form first became common the Trio section would be literally that, a section scored for only three instruments, but the term continues to be used even where the instrumentation is for larger forces. However, even where the ensemble is larger, the Trio section usually has lighter orchestration and a simpler texture. This has particular relevance when one considers that the Minuet and Trio form was often used for the third movement of the classical four-movement symphony.
answered Jun 5, 2014 at 18:03
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4You get the same thing in military and brass band marches. The last section before the DC is called the trio, and it's often marked as such on the parts. In a march, the lighter orchestration you mention is usually achieved by giving the tune to the horns, with a much dancier, springier feel. Jun 5, 2014 at 21:16