Guilliame de Machaut Notre Dame Mass
Notre Dame Mass 1st polyphonic treatment of mass ordinary by known composer Mass ordinary: consists of text that remains the same from day to day throughout church year Five sung prayers: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo , Sanctus , Agnus Dei Polyphonic since 14th century In service, Kyrie and Gloria sung in succession Others separated by liturgical activity and by other texts sung in Gregorian chant
Notre Dame Mass Written for 4 voice parts No record on how Machaut wanted mass to be performed-assumed 4 solo voices Our recording : two tenors and two basses Probably composed in early 1360s for performance at cathedral of Reims
Agnus Dei Prayer for mercy and peace Music solemn and elaborate Triple meter; complex rhythms contribute to its intensity Two upper parts rhythmically active and contain syncopation Two lower parts have longer notes and play a supporting role Based on gregorian chant; Machaut modified with new rhythmic patterns and placed the chant in the tenor
Agnus Dei (Machaut) Chant (canctus-firmus) rhythmically altered within polyphonic texture; more of a musical framework than separate tune Harmonies include stark dissonances, hollow chords and full triads Three sections; same text appears in each section (see vocal music guide) Three sections represent Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)