RENAISSANCE MUSIC ca.

1425-1600

Instruments used in this period can sound unusual to us. (eg.

Sackbutt similar to the trombone: Viol similar to the cello: Lute =
similar to the guitar: Crumhorn = similar to the oboe). Groups of
instruments are called consorts and often a repetitive drum rhythm
is used as an accompaniment.

This period marked the rebirth of humanism in all forms of art,

including music. The word "Renaissance" in itself is defined as a
"rebirth" or a "reconstruction".

The lute became the favoured instrument of the time period, and it
was established as the standard instrument for family music making
during the 16th century

Vocal music is mainly religious and unaccompanied. Counter-tenors

had very high voices (‘castrato’). These singers together with tenor
voices were important in religious music.

The writing in the Renaissance is predominantly imitative and

polyphonic.

Music is both Secular (ie.non-church) and Sacred (ie.religious)

Ensembles: Instrumental Consorts - such as recorder or brass

consorts, Madrigal (secular), Mass, Motet & Anthem (sacred)
Canzona.

Composers: Palestrina, Byrd, Gabrielli, Tallis.