Medieval Polyphony

Question 1

What did Leonin and perotin teach/create/do?

Answer 1

8 modes of rhythm, concept of consonance and dissonance

Question 2

Structure of organa?

Answer 2

Motivic - initial idea is developed into an unfolding melody

Question 3

What are the discant and copula?

Answer 3

Section of rhythmic vitality. Polyphonic texture using rhythmic modes

Question 4

What was clasulae?

Answer 4

Based on melismatic material of a chant (lower part), with rhythmic patterns mixed in (upper part), both parts rhythmicised in contrast to organum

Question 5

What were some advantages of implementing rhythmic modes? (2)

Answer 5

Allows for coordination, therefore more complex polyphony

Question 6

Sources of notre dame polyphony?

Answer 6

Florence manuscript, W1, W2

Question 7

Features of four part polyphony (3)

Answer 7

Melodic cells passed around voices, tension before cadence onto final, more rhythmically vital

Question 8

Difference between clausulae & Motet?

Answer 8

Motet had words added to decorated line, text set to music for first time, lines land on same syllable Vide….provideRUNT

Question 9

What were French motets?

Answer 9

Secular texts applied to clausulae and motets

Question 10

Who is credited with developing motets?

Answer 10

Philip the chancellor (1160-1236)

Question 11

Function of motets? (3)

Answer 11

Non-liturgical, enjoyment for singers, educational