Josquin des Prez Flashcards
1
Q
Why has Josquin been seen as the ‘difficult’ composer? And how did this affect his reputation?
A
- Composed when he wanted and charged more than others
- False attributions to Josquin after death; lots of composers published their works under his name to get their music performed
- Prestige associated with his music
- Josquin’s music carried on being performed in Lutheran Germany (albeit with different text)
2
Q
What was Josquin’s style?
A
- Use of cantus firmus: based on chant tune and becomes imitative as source material migrates to all parts
- Uses small melodic cells in imitation e.g. Missa Pange lingua a 4
- Josquin style does not make it across the channel
3
Q
Give an example of Josquin’s work and how it reflects his style
A
- Ave Maria…virgo serena
o Petrucci used it as the first piece in his printed collection of motets
o 4 voice parts sharing imitative idea – strictly imitative, hierarchical
o Scoring: high upper voice, two lower/middle, low
o High level of imitation is new for period – helps textual clarity
o Not very melismatic
4
Q
How did Humanist scholarship affect Josquin?
A
- Spent lots of time in Italy (centre on humanist rediscovery/debate)
- Focus on sensitivity of expression and expression of text/rhetoric
- Long, free melodic lines distributed equally among parts (no cantus firmus)
- E.g. Ave Maria (motet) – simplistic, direct entries; highlighting clarity of text with naturalistic emphases on syllabic/melismatic settings
5
Q
How do Josquin’s compositions reflect a new/developing attitude?
A
- Josquin’s attitude – became more self-conscious, individual. Composed better (it is said) when not for a patron. Although caveat: most humanist ideas probably transmitted through patrons (who is running academic circle) so more osmotic process.
- Printing: 1450 printing press Johannes Gutenberg meant music could be distributed further/more quickly; allows for further internationalism and exchange of musical ideas
