Role

:

Composer

Country

:

France

Birth

:

1150

Death

:

December 25, 1231

Period

:

Medieval

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Folquet de Marseille was a French troubadour and composer who lived during the 12th and 13th centuries. He was born in Marseille, France, in the year 1150, and was the son of a wealthy merchant. Folquet was educated in the arts and sciences, and was known for his intelligence and wit. As a young man, Folquet became interested in music and poetry, and began composing his own songs. He was influenced by the troubadour tradition of southern France, which was characterized by its emphasis on courtly love and chivalry. Folquet's music was also influenced by the religious music of the Catholic Church, which he heard during his travels throughout Europe. Folquet's early compositions were simple love songs, but as he grew older, he began to incorporate more complex musical structures and themes into his work. He also began to write more religious music, and became known for his hymns and chants. In the year 1195, Folquet became a monk and joined the Cistercian order. He was ordained as a priest in 1205, and spent the rest of his life in religious service. Despite his religious calling, Folquet continued to compose music, and his works became increasingly popular throughout Europe. One of Folquet's most famous compositions is the hymn "Maria, virgo virginum," which is still performed in churches today. The hymn is a tribute to the Virgin Mary, and is characterized by its simple melody and haunting harmonies. Another notable work by Folquet is the chanson "En un vergier," which is a love song that tells the story of a knight who falls in love with a beautiful woman. The song is notable for its complex musical structure, which includes multiple voices and intricate harmonies. Folquet's music was also known for its use of the Occitan language, which was spoken in southern France during the Middle Ages. The Occitan language was known for its rich poetic tradition, and Folquet's use of the language helped to popularize it throughout Europe. Despite his success as a composer, Folquet is perhaps best known for his religious work. He was a devout Catholic, and his music reflected his deep faith. His hymns and chants were often performed in churches throughout Europe, and helped to inspire a new generation of religious music. Folquet died in the year 1231, and was buried in the Cistercian monastery in Marseille. His music continued to be performed and admired throughout Europe, and his legacy as a composer and troubadour lives on to this day.

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