   "Spring" is the first of the four concerti grossi in this work.  In the Four Seasons each concerto grosso, "Spring," " Summer," " Autumn" and "Winter," is accompanied by a sonnet giving interpretation to the interacting themes.   "Spring"  is scored for solo violin and string orchestra.   As is typical of the concerto grosso form, there are three movements with the standard tempo contrast of fast-slow-fast.  In the first movement, the sonnet speaks of birds greeting the arrival of spring followed by a storm with lightning and thunder.  The second movement pictures soft winds in the leaves and grass as a shepherd sleeps.  The last movement is a festival with shepherds and nymphs dancing in celebration.
      As you listen, notice the thematic repeats in the ritornello sections and  how the solo violin bridges the ritornello sections with virtuoso displays of technique.  
      The continuo accompanies both the solo violin and the ritornelli.  In the slow movement the role of the continuo is more evident.  The slow movement is much like an instrumental aria.  The basso continuo is as important to this instrumental style as it is to the vocal forms. 