Middle Ages- Gregorian Chant Flashcards
Define Mass Proper
includes prayers that are variable
a single line of melody (referred to as a “voice”)
no harmony or accompaniment
Define monophonic texture
Define syllabic text setting
one note for a single syllable of text
text can be clearly understood
Define ‘a capella’
vocal music without instrumental accompaniment
Middle Ages and Renaissance
Define melismatic text setting
Many pitches sung on a single syllable of the text.
Define the Gradual
characterized by the presence of melismatic text settings and a responsorial style
Define neumes
- the earliest form of notation in music
- originally indicating the direction of the melodic line
- later in the shape of squares or diamonds positioned on a staff and representing specific pitches
Define Mass Ordinary
includes prayers that do not change
Define neumatic text setting
several notes (two to four) for a single syllable of text
Define Gregorian Chant
a form of plainchant
generally with Latin (and occasionally Greek) texts
modal, monophonic melodies with unmeasured rhythm
named after Pope Gregory the Great
Define polyphonic texture
two or more independent melodic lines (or voices) heard simultaneously
referred to as contrapuntal texture
Define plainchant
monophonic texture
modal melodies
relatively narrow melodic range
the rhythm follows the natural flow of the text
Define modes
scale patterns distinguished by their unique order of half steps and whole steps
generally referred to by their original Greek names (Dorian, Phrygian, etc.)
Define responsorial singing
solo voice alternates with chorus
solo passages referred to as “verse”
choral passages referred to as “respond”
Which church had a strong influence on virtually all aspects of European life, including music?
The Roman Catholic Church
