Final answer:
The term 'concerto' comes from the Latin verb 'concertare,' which means 'to contend with.' This reflects the interplay between soloist and orchestra in concerto pieces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The title of the concerto genre is derived from the Latin verb concertare, meaning "to contend with" or "to compete". The term reflects the spirit of the concerto form, particularly that of the Baroque period, where the dynamic between soloist and orchestra was one of a harmonious competition, with the soloist often displaying virtuosic prowess in contrast to the ensemble.
In a traditional concerto, there is an interplay between the soloist and the larger group, frequently engaging in a call and response pattern. This aspect of competition and collaboration is what makes concertos so exciting and distinct within classical music.