“Early Western Art Music”
“Early Western Art Music” (Music from the Middle Ages or Renaissance only, no Dylan, Baez, or Cash, etc.) Include the title of the listening example in your answer. After listening, address these six questions:
After listening, address the following six questions:
• How did the music make you feel? Why?
• What was the mood of the music? Why do you say that?
Sample Answer
Let’s explore early Western art music, focusing on the Medieval and Renaissance periods. I’ve chosen a piece representative of the era: “Missa Papae Marcelli” (Mass for Pope Marcellus) by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. This work, composed during the Renaissance, is a masterpiece of polyphony and is often cited as a prime example of sacred music from that period.
How did the music make you feel? Why?
Listening to the “Missa Papae Marcelli” evokes a sense of peace, serenity, and even awe. The smooth, flowing vocal lines create a sense of calm and tranquility. The polyphony, with its interwoven melodies, creates a rich and complex texture that is both beautiful and intellectually stimulating. The absence of strong rhythmic drives or dramatic dynamic contrasts contributes to the overall feeling of peaceful contemplation. The music seems to transcend earthly concerns and evoke a sense of the divine. The sheer beauty and craftsmanship of the composition are also awe-inspiring, demonstrating the mastery of Palestrina and the sophistication of Renaissance polyphony.