Saltarello felix

The Saltarello can be performed and danced both on simple binary rhythm (2/4) and on composed binary rhythm (6/8). The rhythm assumes emphasis when strong tempos are alternated with weak tempos, for instance when the rhythm is in 2/4 the cadence is on the first quarter. Melodic cells are organized in successions to produce a specific musical structure which inspires the dancers when putting together their own steps. In the large Saltarello’s family we can find therefore both the pressing rhythms of the “Saltarella Amatriciana” and expressions ranging between 4/4 and 6/8, with touches of “Taranta” of the Sannio’s Saltarello.

In both country and town versions of the Saltarello in Lazio, the main characteristic is the continuous oscillation between Tonic (C) and Dominant (G) which is the repetitive basic element of the harmony: this allows the musician to play fast and sometime demanding melodies.
With the strong rhythm of the tambourine, the closing parts of the piece of music can become very fast and end abruptly.
In the large family of the Saltarello, we can find both the pressing rhythm of the Saltarella Amatriciana, tipical from Lazio, and the expressions between 4/4 and 6/8 of the Saltarello from the Sannio that includes also phrasing of pizzica tarantata.