English Madrigal: derived from Italian sources, esp. Musica
Transalpina, volume of Italian madrigals translated into English,
inspired English composers
Reformation: long-standing disillusionment with Catholic Church
came to a head in early 16th Century
1517: Martin Luther writes 95 Theses, calling
for reforms, is excommunicated soon thereafter
Soon founds his own church with reforms implimented, esp.
portions of service in vernacular
more singing for congregation (get them involved)
They sang Kirchenlieder or Chorales: monophonic melodies (not harmonized
at this time)
Other Protestant Churches
Calvinist based on ideas of John Calvin
re-worked much more of liturgy than Luther had done
distrusted singing in church; limited to psalms only
Anglican (In England): founded more for political reasons than
religious
Anglican service was simplified: fewer parts of mass were set to music;
main musical parts were service (e.g. communion and other portions)
and anthem (like a motet)
Counter-Reformation: Catholic church's response to Protestantism
Council of Trent (1545-63) met to discuss complaints against
church. Some were complaints about music:
florid polyphony obscured meaning of texts
instruments too loud for church
too many secular elements, e.g. cantus firmi
singers used poor pronunciation (obscured meaning)
Council didn't make rules but suggestions; Commission of Cardinals
listened to masses to "test" for intelligibility; requested less
complex counterpoint
Palestrina's music conforms with intent of Council
simpler counterpoint, stepwise melody, diatonic harmony and very clear
text declamation