Ballat

A ballat (also sometimes spelled ballate in plural) is a 14th-century Italian poetic and musical form. It shares similarities with the French virelai. The ballat typically consists of three sections: a ripresa (refrain), a stanza, and a ripresa repeated. The stanza itself is often divided into two piedi (feet) and a volta (turn). The ripresa acts as a framing device, beginning and ending the composition.

The poetic structure of a ballat is intricately linked with its musical setting. The ripresa is typically set to a distinctive melody that is then repeated. The piedi of the stanza are also set to a repeating melody, which is different from that of the ripresa. Finally, the volta uses the same melody as the ripresa, leading back to the final statement of the refrain.

The ballat was particularly popular during the Ars Nova period in Italy, with composers such as Francesco Landini being known for their contributions to the form. While often secular in nature, ballate could also be used for religious purposes. The subject matter typically revolved around themes of love, nature, and courtly life. The form's popularity waned in the 15th century.