Divertimenti

/ˌdɪvɜːtɪˈmɛnti/ noun

Definition

Plural of divertimento; multiple light, entertaining musical compositions, typically instrumental, often performed casually or at social occasions.

Etymology

Italian plural of 'divertimento' (amusement, entertainment), from 'divertire' (to divert, entertain), derived from Latin 'divertere'. This Italian musical term entered English during the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Mozart wrote over 90 divertimenti—they were background music for parties and dinners, what we'd call 'dinner music' today, but Mozart managed to pack genuine genius into these 'throwaway' pieces.

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