When discussing the history of art music in the Western world, also commonly referred to as “classical music” we often describe the music in terms of the historical period from which it comes. Why do we use this method to discuss the music from the Western world and not use it to describe music from other cul-tures? Because the story of music in the Western world is the story of its evolu-tion. It evolved in ways that transcended the cultural conventions of the time from which it came and linked it to both the preceding and the following historical periods. This connection to the music before and after it lends the music of the Western world especially well to this kind of examination. While music from other cultures has also changed over time, this music is often inextricably linked to the preservation of the characteristics of the culture from which it came, which is very different from Western music. As we go through the chapters in this book, it will become more apparent why we discuss Western music in terms of historical periods and music from other cultures in a variety of ways.
Medieval Period ca. AD 500-1450
Most preserved music from the Medieval period is from the Catholic Church and was written down by monks in monasteries. During the first 500 years of this period the predominant type of music is referred to as Gregorian Chant, a monophonic vocal music sung in the church. The remainder of the period saw a gradually evolving complexity in the music from chant consisting of a single melodic line to two-part writing called organum, and finally to polyphonic sacred (religiously based) compositions called motets (often settings of prayers) and masses (settings of certain texts from the ritual celebration of the Mass). Most of the music written during this time was composed by monks serving the church. Secular (non-religious) music such as music for dancing and music for singing was common, but far less of it was written down. The songs of the Troubadors and Trouveres, French noblemen who wrote poetry and music, are a major source of secular music during this time. Major centers of music making existed in Italy and France.
The medieval period of music, spanning roughly from the 5th to the 15th century, is a captivating chapter in the history of music that witnessed the evolution of musical notation and the birth of polyphony. Gregorian chant, with its hauntingly beautiful melodies, was a hallmark of this era, primarily associated with religious rituals and monastic life. Troubadours and trouveres brought secular music to courts and castles, celebrating chivalry and courtly love through poetic lyrics and simple melodies. Notably, the development of musical notation by Guido of Arezzo allowed for more precise and widespread music dissemination. The medieval era laid the foundation for the rich tapestry of Western classical music, setting the stage for the Renaissance’s further innovations and musical exploration.
Major Composers
- Hildegard of Bingen-1098-1179
- Leonin-ca. 1163-1190
- Perotin -ca. 1200
- Guillaume de Machaut-1300-1377
