The Great Musical Adventure part 2

Medieval musicians

The composers of the medieval period have their own unique styles of writing music. While I say that each one is unique in their own ways, their styles have a somewhat similar sound. Hollow, dark, eerie, melodic sounds intertwined into a mysterious melody. Each song is written with Latin text which makes it all the more mystifying. It captivates our attention and imagination and sends chills down our spin. Hildegard von Bingen's Ordo Virtutum has an almost operatic feel to it while still being music from the medieval period. There is a lead singer as well as a responsive choir. In some ways and parts, there are duets either between the choir and lead singer or a dialogue between just two singers.

The other composers such as Pérotin, Guillaume de Machaut, Tuotilo, and Giovanni de Casciatend to write with a basic medieval style which we all know. The enchanting, almost haunting melody which intertwines beautifully with the words and meanings of the words. I listened to Douce dame joile by Guillaume de Machaut. He composed this song for two lutes or guitars. It is wonderfully composed and it captivates my mind and sends it into a state of bliss.

Because I am not used to listening to this kind of music, this project was actually a little complicated. I am used to listening to Baroque and later, not earlier than the Baroque era. When you are used to listening to only specific kinds of music, it takes time to become acquainted with other kinds of music. However, listening to different and other kinds of music is a great way to grow in our musicality. We grow the most when we go out of our comfort zone and try new ideas.

This week, I will dive into listening to some Renaissance music. Composers such as William Byrd, John Dowland, and Claudio Monteverdi wrote in this era. Great stuff is ahead!

Cheers!

Chloe Elizabeth