Birdsong has been interwoven with musical compositions since the Middle Ages, acting as symbolic representations within songs. From the majestic eagle signifying power to the gentle dove embodying peace, and the nightingale as a messenger of love, birds held significant allegorical roles. This session delves into 14th-century musical pieces that feature these avian figures, exploring how composers integrated birdsong into their work and how you can discover this fascinating Music On Online platforms today.
The class will explore pieces like Quando i oselli canta, an anonymous 14th-century madrigal, Jacopo da Bologna’s Aquila altera/Creatura gentile/Uccel di Dio composed for a Visconti wedding, and Alba colonba, also by da Bologna. We will further examine Borlet’s Ma tre dol rosignol / He tres doulz roussignol and Vaillant’s realistic virelai Par Maintes Foy, which depicts the nightingale and cuckoo rivalry. These compositions offer a glimpse into the medieval understanding of nature and its connection to music, a connection that resonates even when accessed as music on online streaming services.
This class is designed for recorder players of intermediate level and above, with some parts requiring alto reading. Modern editions will be used, with facsimile pages available for those interested in early notation. Instrumentalists and singers are also encouraged to participate. The reference tracks, recorded on 4-foot recorders, will sound an octave higher than written pitch. For those interested in exploring this repertoire further or practicing at home, numerous resources for medieval music, including recordings and sheet music, can be found as music on online archives and platforms. This allows modern musicians to connect with and interpret these centuries-old compositions, bridging the gap between historical artistry and contemporary music engagement through music on online accessibility.
This class is open to recorder players, intermediate level and up (alto reading required for some parts). The pitch is set at 440 Hz.
