Humanism, Reformation, Renaissance: Key Concepts
Humanism and the Printing Press
In the 15th century, economic and demographic recovery, along with the rise of the bourgeoisie, led to the growth of cities.
The New Way of Thinking
Humanism: a cultural movement from the early period.
Instead of placing God at the center of the world, human beings were put at the center (Anthropocentrism).
Characteristics of Humanism:
- Importance of Human Beings
- Appreciation of Ancient Greek and Latin Culture
- Interest in Scientific and Technological Progress
- Use of Vernacular
Musical Instruments and Composers: An Introduction
Musical Instruments
Three Groups of Instruments
- String Instruments
- Bowed: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
- Plucked: Harp
- Hammered: Piano
- Wind Instruments
- Woodwind: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Oboe (English Horn)
- Brass: Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Tuba
- Percussion Instruments
- Definite Pitch: Xylophone
- Indefinite Pitch: Drums
Human Voice
- Female: Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Contralto
- Male: Countertenor, Baritone, Bass
Instrument Details
Bowed String Instruments
The violin family includes the violin, viola,
Read MoreMozart’s Musical Legacy: A Deep Dive into His Life and Works
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART (1756 – 1791) was a child prodigy.
The influence of Leopold Mozart was: Violin pedagogue and musician at the court of the archbishop of Salzburg. He traveled, showing his talent throughout Europe.
His influences were: – National styles, folk musics – Johann Schobert (Paris), keyboard music – J.C. Bach (London). Mozart: general characteristics
He had an evolution comparable to Haydn (Viennese Classicism). The orchestra grew bigger, more winds, timpani, winds’ growing
Read MoreOpera, Zarzuela, Musicals, Ballet: A Concise Overview
The Expansion of Opera
Opera spread rapidly throughout Europe. During the 17th century, many theaters were built specifically for opera performances. These theaters, called opera houses, were built with a specific space allocated for musicians. Some are true architectural wonders.
Opera Seria and Opera Comique
Opera seria is characterized by dramatic topics inspired by mythology, history, and powerful, distinguished figures like heroes and kings. The music was exquisite and refined. These operas were
Read MoreMedieval and Renaissance Music: Gregorian Chant & Polyphony
Medieval and Renaissance Music
Gregorian chant is monophonic singing, without instrumental accompaniment, in Latin and used in the Catholic liturgy. Pope Gregory I unified the chants across Europe.
The Mass always has the same structure. The chants of the Ordinary (Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei) are unchanged. The singing itself varies depending on the text of the liturgical year, or according to the festivities of the saints (Introitus, Graduale, Alleluia, Offertorium, and Communio)
Read MoreMusic Definitions: A Comprehensive List
Music Definitions
Here are some definitions of musical terms:
- Aria – A long, accompanied song for a solo voice, typically in an opera or oratorio.
- Art Song (Lied) – A song written to be sung in recital, typically with piano accompaniment and often set to a poem.
- Atonality – Not written in any key or mode.
- Basso Continuo – (In baroque music) An accompanying part that includes a bass line and harmonies, typically played on a keyboard instrument and with other instruments such as cello or bass viol.
- Cadenza