Listening Assignment, MU111: #8, Part 1 |
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Assignment 8, pt. 1 |
Before listening to the works on these pages,
read the assignment in Todd, Discovering Music Assignment #8 introduces you to three styles important in the early Baroque period:
I. Giovanni Gabrieli, "Blow a Trumpet in the New Moon" (Buccinate in neomania) Begin by listening to a piece in polychoral style, a polychoral motet (a sacred composition for more than one choir) by Giovanni Gabrieli, who served as organist at the church of St. Mark's in Venice in the late 1500s and early 1600s. This massive work is scored for 4 choirs. In this recording, one choir consists of 4 singers and organ; the other three choirs combine a single singer with a group of instruments. For the full effect, you really have to hear it on a high quality multi-channel stereo system, not on your I-pod or computer! As you listen, follow the differing combinations of choirs, particularly the way all choirs combine to create a massive, "wall" of sound at the end of the three "Alleluia" sections. Notice, too how the three "Alleluias" begin with similar music. What significant metrical shift occurs at the words "Cantate et exultate," (about 2:19)?
Listen to Giovanni Gabrieli, "Blow a Trumpet in the New Moon," Go to CD#8 Part 2 |