North Italian liturgical music in the late sixteenth century

Abstract

This is a study of published sacred polyphonic vocal music by composers working in the Venetian Republic and adjacent territories, from the late 1560s, when the decrees of the Council of Trent were implemented in regional councils, to the earliest years of the new century, when the economic prosperity of Venice was starting to wane. The prosperity and stability of the Republic, characteristics of Venetian art and architecture, the influence of Humanist ideas through the flourishing intellectual Academies, the deep spirituality of the region and the interpretations of the regional councils are all found to be important external factors influencing the cultivation of t he predominantly homophonic style in liturgical music of the period. Chapter 11 examines the state of the liturgy in North Italy, the role of music in the Mass, the major Offices , and processions, and creates a comprehensive picture of the life and organization of the cappella. The rich musical repertory is discussed in detail under four main headings : settings of the Mass Ordinary ; psalms and Magnificats ; motets ; and complementary music for liturgical celebrations. Pieces under discussion are illustrated by many musical examples and by transcriptions of complete pieces and movements. Distinctive stylistic and formal trends, such as falsobordone and the use of refrains, are highlighted. Discussion of performance practice in the period includes analysis of documentary evidence of early instances of performance in the concerto manner, and of instrumental participation and substitution.