Vocal music in the Medieval and Renaissance periods is some of the most interesting and beautiful music of all time. Use this guide as a jumping-off point to explore some of the more important genres and techniques in the Medieval era through the Renaissance (ending around 1600).
Topics:
- Medieval and Renaissance Music: Why is it Important?
- Chant — the first major body of European music that was notated (written down).
- Organum — the earliest genre of polyphony, which developed out of chant.
- Polyphony — a style of music that was especially popular and sophisticated during the height of the Renaissance (16th century).
- Madrigals and Word Painting — a sub-category of polyphony: secular music that illustrates words through melody and texture.
Exercises:
- Listening to Medieval and Renaissance Vocal Music
Develop and test your ability to recognize the genres and techniques discussed in this guide. I recommend using this exercise as a tool to learn what to listen for, and how to listen.