Medieval Music 200 – 1400 AD
Historical Events/General Facts Civilizations become more distinct 1203 – Genghis Khan begins conquering and pillaging 1209 – St. Francis of Assisi forms order of brotherhood 1271 – Marco Polo begins journey to the Orient
Historical Events/General Facts 1337 – Beginning of the 100 yr. war b/w France and England 1347- Black Death, 75 million people die (1/3 of the world) 1364 – Aztecs build capital city of Tenochtitlan
Music Facts We begin to divide into different styles of music according to region Western music (European) develops around 300 AD The music of the Roman church becomes the basis for Western music
Chant 600 AD Pope Gregory I collected chants and arranged them in the order they are sung today also called plainchant notated by Guido d’Arezzo (also created solfege) - staff had 4 lines and square notes
Chant a cappella and unison sung in Latin, text from Bible no printing press, 1 large song book for everyone 900 AD Music became more elaborate and 2 parts develop
Sacred vs. Secular Common themes in secular music a. emotions – love b. daily life – farming
Sacred vs. Secular How music was used a. to express emotions b. for entertainment c. to praise God
Composers Anonymous Perotin Leonin
Guillaume de Machaut Known as the master of music of his time He composed music with great variety of style and form to be heard by very important people (royalty). Composed the first polyphonic (many voices) music of the Mass. Composed secular love songs
Use of Instruments to imitate voices (sacred) used for dances (secular)
Instruments lutes – early guitars harps strings (cellos, violin) recorders dulcimer