Date: Late 16th century (exact date uncertain) Description:A joyful and concise Latin motet, often arranged as a round or canon. Frequently attributed to composers such as Michael Praetorius or anonymous Renaissance origins. It is widely used in choral settings for its bright mood and easy adaptability for beginners and youth …
Date:13th century Description:The 13th-century gymel version of “Jesu Cristes Milde Moder” is a setting of the Latin hymn dedicated to the Virgin Mary, arranged in the style of gymel. Gymel is a medieval contrapuntal technique in which two or more voices move together in parallel motion, usually in a perfect …
Date:c. 1538 Description:“Il Bianco e Dolce Cigno” is one of the most famous madrigals by the Flemish composer Jacques Arcadelt. This early Italian madrigal is known for its rich harmonies and expressive text setting, typical of the early madrigal style. The title translates as “The White and Sweet Swan,” and …
Date:c. 1560 Description:“If Ye Love Me” is a beautiful English anthem by Thomas Tallis, often performed in church settings. It is a simple yet elegant motet, written for four voices, and is known for its smooth, flowing melodies and serene harmonies. The text is drawn from the Bible, specifically from …
Date:1609 Description:“I Lay with an Old Man” is a humorous English song by Thomas Ravenscroft, included in his Deuteromelia (1609). This piece falls under the category of a “catch,” a type of English round or canonic song that was popular in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The song …
Date:Early 16th century (circa 1500s) Description:“Hoyda, Hoyda, Jolly Rutterkin” is a spirited English Renaissance song, attributed to William Cornysh. The piece exemplifies the jovial and rhythmic character of early 16th-century English music, often associated with courtly entertainments and masques. Discussion:The song’s repetitive “Hoyda” refrain and catchy melody suggest it was …
Date:1597 Description:Gush Forth My Tears is a pavan composed by William Holborne and published in The Cittharn Schoole, a collection of songs and instrumental works. It shares thematic and musical similarities with Dowland’s Flow, My Tears, reflecting the intense emotional expression typical of late Elizabethan melancholy music. Discussion:Holborne’s piece is …
Date:15th century Description:A graceful and flowing basse danse, Ginevra (or Pazienza) belongs to the Burgundian court tradition. This dance was typically performed in a slow, stately manner, often accompanied by instrumental consorts. Discussion:The basse danse was a popular courtly dance in the 15th century, particularly in Burgundy and France. Ginevra …
Date:1609 Description:“Glad am I” is a three-part round composed by Thomas Ravenscroft. It appears as the 11th piece in his collection Deuteromelia, published in 1609. The piece reflects the social and musical culture of the English Renaissance, where singing in rounds was a popular form of entertainment. Discussion:This round exemplifies …