Concerto Plural: Mastering ‘Concerto,’ ‘Concertos,’ & ‘Concerti’

Introduction

The English language, a melting pot of various influences, often borrows words from other languages. These borrowed words, while enriching our vocabulary, can sometimes present challenges when it comes to pluralization.

“Concerto,” an Italian term referring to a musical composition, is a prime example. Should we use the regular English plural “concertos,” or retain the Italian plural “concerti”?

This article delves into the intricacies of this linguistic question, providing a clear and comprehensive guide to understanding and using the correct plural form.

Mastering the pluralization of words like “concerto” is crucial for accurate and effective communication, particularly in formal writing and academic contexts. By understanding the rules and conventions, you can avoid common errors and demonstrate a strong command of the English language.

This guide is designed for language learners, music enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to improve their grammatical accuracy.

Definition of Concerto

A concerto is a musical composition, typically in three movements, in which one solo instrument (or occasionally more than one) is accompanied by an orchestra. The term “concerto” comes from the Italian word concertare, meaning “to contend or cooperate.” This reflects the interplay between the soloist and the orchestra, a defining characteristic of the concerto form. Concertos are a staple of classical music repertoire, showcasing both the virtuosity of the soloist and the collaborative power of the ensemble.

The concerto emerged during the Baroque period and has evolved through various musical eras, including the Classical, Romantic, and modern periods. Famous composers like Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky have contributed significantly to the concerto literature.

The form allows for a wide range of expressive possibilities, from dramatic and virtuosic displays to lyrical and introspective moments.

Structural Breakdown of Pluralization

The pluralization of nouns in English generally involves adding “-s” or “-es” to the singular form. However, words of foreign origin, particularly those from Latin and Italian, often retain their original plural forms.

This can lead to multiple valid plural forms for a single word. In the case of “concerto,” we have two options: the anglicized form “concertos” and the Italian form “concerti.” Understanding the etymology and historical usage of these forms is key to using them correctly.

The English pluralization rule is straightforward: add “-s” to most nouns. However, for nouns ending in -o, -s, -x, -ch, or -sh, we typically add “-es.” The word “concerto,” ending in “-o,” might lead one to believe that “concertoes” would be the correct plural.

However, due to its Italian origin, the pluralization follows a different pattern, allowing for both “concertos” and “concerti.” The Italian plural, “concerti,” follows the Italian rule of changing the “-o” ending to “-i” for masculine nouns.

Types or Categories of Plural Forms

Anglicized Plural: “Concertos”

The anglicized plural, “concertos,” is formed by simply adding “-s” to the singular form “concerto.” This is the more common and widely accepted plural form in general English usage. It is considered grammatically correct and is often preferred in less formal contexts.

Using “concertos” avoids any potential confusion or perceived pretentiousness that might arise from using the Italian plural.

Italian Plural: “Concerti”

The Italian plural, “concerti,” retains the original Italian pluralization rule, where the “-o” ending is changed to “-i” for masculine nouns. This form is considered grammatically correct, particularly in musical contexts or when discussing Italian musical terminology.

While “concerti” is acceptable, it’s important to be mindful of your audience and the overall tone of your writing. In general English, “concertos” is often preferred for clarity and accessibility.

Examples of Usage

Examples Using “Concertos”

The following table provides examples of how to use “concertos” in various sentences. This is the more common and widely accepted plural form.

Examples Using “Concerti”

The following table provides examples of how to use “concerti” in sentences. This form is more common in musical contexts and when discussing Italian musical terminology.

Comparison Table: “Concertos” vs. “Concerti”

The following table offers a comparison of the two plural forms, highlighting their usage contexts and providing example sentences.

Usage Rules

The choice between “concertos” and “concerti” depends largely on context and personal preference. However, some general guidelines can help you make the right decision. In general English usage, “concertos” is the more common and widely accepted form. It is always grammatically correct and avoids any potential for confusion. “Concerti” is more appropriate in musical contexts, particularly when discussing Italian musical terminology or specific sets of works known by their Italian titles (e.g., concerti grossi).

When writing for a general audience, “concertos” is usually the safer choice. It ensures clarity and accessibility for readers who may not be familiar with Italian musical terms.

However, if you are writing for a specialized audience of musicians or musicologists, “concerti” may be more appropriate, as it demonstrates a familiarity with the field’s conventions. Consistency is key.

Once you choose a form, stick with it throughout your writing.

Common Mistakes

A common mistake is using “concertoes” as the plural form. This is incorrect, as “concerto” is not a typical English noun and does not follow the standard English pluralization rule for words ending in “-o.” Another mistake is using “concerti” in a general context where “concertos” would be more appropriate.

This can sound pretentious or overly formal. It’s also important to avoid mixing the two forms within the same piece of writing, as this can create confusion and inconsistency.

Correct vs. Incorrect Examples

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Plural Form

Select the correct plural form (“concertos” or “concerti”) for each sentence.

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the correct plural form (“concertos” or “concerti”).

Exercise 3: Sentence Completion

Complete the following sentences using either “concertos” or “concerti” in a grammatically correct and contextually appropriate manner.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, it’s worth exploring the nuances of using “concertos” and “concerti” in different academic fields. In musicology, the choice may depend on the specific subfield and the focus of the research.

When discussing the historical development of the concerto form, “concerti” may be preferred to emphasize the Italian origins. However, when analyzing the structural elements of concertos from various periods and countries, “concertos” may be more appropriate.

Furthermore, understanding the historical usage and evolution of the term “concerto” itself can provide valuable insights into its pluralization.

Another advanced topic is the use of loanwords and their pluralization in general. English has borrowed words from numerous languages, each with its own set of pluralization rules.

Understanding these rules and the factors that influence the adoption of foreign plurals can enhance your overall command of the English language. Consider researching other examples of nouns with multiple plural forms, such as “curriculum” (curricula/curriculums) and “index” (indices/indexes), to further expand your knowledge.

FAQ

1. Is “concertoes” a correct plural form?

   No, “concertoes” is not a correct plural form. The correct plural forms are “concertos” and “concerti.” “Concertoes” incorrectly applies standard English pluralization rules to a word of Italian origin.

2. When should I use “concertos” instead of “concerti”?

   You should use “concertos” in general English usage, less formal contexts, or when you want to avoid potential confusion. It’s the more common and widely accepted form for a general audience.

3. When is it appropriate to use “concerti”?

   It is appropriate to use “concerti” in musical contexts, particularly when discussing Italian musical terminology or specific sets of works known by their Italian titles (e.g., concerti grossi). It’s also suitable for specialized audiences of musicians or musicologists.

4. Is one form more grammatically correct than the other?

   Both “concertos” and “concerti” are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the context and intended audience. “Concertos” is generally considered safer for a broader audience, while “concerti” is acceptable and sometimes preferred in specialized musical contexts.

5. Can I use “concerti” when referring to concertos by non-Italian composers?

   While technically acceptable, it’s generally more appropriate to use “concertos” when referring to concertos by non-Italian composers, especially in general English. Using “concerti” in this context might sound overly formal or pretentious.

6. Should I be consistent with my choice of plural form?

   Yes, consistency is key. Once you choose a plural form, whether “concertos” or “concerti,” stick with it throughout your writing to avoid confusion and maintain a professional tone.

7. Are there other musical terms with similar pluralization rules?

   Yes, many musical terms of Italian origin follow similar pluralization rules. For example, “libretto” has the plural forms “librettos” and “libretti,” and “tempo” has “tempos” and “tempi.”

8. How can I improve my understanding of foreign pluralization rules in English?

   To improve your understanding, study the etymology of loanwords and their original pluralization rules. Pay attention to the context in which different plural forms are used and consult style guides for recommendations on preferred usage. Reading widely and observing how native speakers use these words can also be helpful.

9. Is it ever acceptable to mix “concertos” and “concerti” in the same text?

   Generally, no. Mixing the two forms in the same text can be confusing and is not recommended unless there is a very specific and justifiable reason, such as when quoting another source that uses a different form.

10. What if I’m unsure which plural form to use?

    If you’re unsure, “concertos” is the safer and more widely accepted choice. It is almost always appropriate and avoids any risk of sounding pretentious or confusing your audience.

Conclusion

Understanding the pluralization of “concerto” – whether to use “concertos” or “concerti” – requires a nuanced understanding of English grammar, etymology, and context. While both forms are grammatically correct, “concertos” is generally preferred in general English usage for its clarity and accessibility.

“Concerti” is more appropriate in musical contexts, particularly when discussing Italian musical terminology or specific sets of works known by their Italian titles. The key takeaway is to choose a form and maintain consistency throughout your writing.

By mastering these rules and considering your audience, you can confidently and accurately use the plural form of “concerto” in any situation. Remember to consult style guides and pay attention to the context in which these words are used.

With practice and attention to detail, you can avoid common mistakes and demonstrate a strong command of the English language. Keep exploring the fascinating world of grammar and language to enhance your communication skills.