RENAISSANCE MUSIC ca.1425-1600
Instruments used in this period can sound unusual to us. (eg. Sackbutt
similar to the trombone: Viol similar to the cello: Lute
= similar to the guitar: Crumhorn = similar to the oboe). Groups of
instruments are called consorts and often a repetitive drum rhythm is used
as an accompaniment.
This period marked the rebirth of humanism in all forms of art, including
music. The word "Renaissance" in itself is defined as a
"rebirth" or a "reconstruction".
The lute became the favoured instrument of the time period,
and it was established as the standard instrument for family music making
during the 16th century
Vocal music is mainly religious and unaccompanied. Counter-tenors had very high voices
(‘castrato’). These singers together with tenor voices were important in
religious music.
The writing in the Renaissance is predominantly imitative and polyphonic.
Music is both Secular
(ie.non-church) and Sacred (ie.religious)
Ensembles: Instrumental Consorts - such as recorder or brass consorts,
Madrigal (secular), Mass, Motet & Anthem (sacred) Canzona.
Composers: Palestrina, Byrd,
Gabrielli, Tallis.
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Period by going to my revision page.
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