Role

:

Composer

Country

:

France

Birth

:

1145

Death

:

before 1215

Period

:

Medieval

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Bertran de Born was a medieval troubadour and poet who lived in the 12th century in the region of Aquitaine, in what is now southwestern France. He was born into a noble family, and his father was a powerful lord who controlled a large territory in the region. Bertran was educated in the courtly arts of the time, including music, poetry, and warfare. As a young man, Bertran became a troubadour, a poet-musician who composed and performed songs in the Occitan language. He was known for his powerful and passionate lyrics, which often dealt with themes of love, war, and politics. He was also a skilled musician, playing the vielle, a medieval stringed instrument similar to a violin. Bertran's music was popular among the nobility of Aquitaine, and he was often invited to perform at courtly gatherings and tournaments. He also traveled extensively throughout the region, performing for audiences in towns and villages. His fame as a troubadour grew, and he became known as one of the greatest poets and musicians of his time. In addition to his musical career, Bertran was also involved in politics and warfare. He supported the cause of the Plantagenet dynasty, which ruled over Aquitaine and England, and he fought in several battles on their behalf. He was known for his bravery and skill as a warrior, and he was respected by both his allies and his enemies. Bertran's poetry and music were deeply influenced by his experiences in war and politics. Many of his songs dealt with themes of conflict and violence, and he often expressed his support for the Plantagenet cause in his lyrics. He was also known for his love songs, which were often bittersweet and melancholy. Bertran's most famous work is his song "Can vei la lauzeta mover," which translates to "When I see the lark moving." The song is a love poem that describes the beauty of nature and the joy of love. It is considered one of the greatest works of medieval poetry, and it has been set to music by many composers over the centuries. Bertran's music and poetry had a profound influence on the troubadour tradition, and his work was widely imitated by other poets and musicians of the time. His legacy can be seen in the many troubadour songs that have survived to this day, as well as in the works of later poets and musicians who were inspired by his example. Despite his fame and success as a troubadour, Bertran's life was not without controversy. He was involved in several political disputes, and he was eventually exiled from Aquitaine by the Plantagenet king, Richard the Lionheart. He spent the rest of his life wandering through Europe, performing his music and poetry for audiences in various countries. Bertran de Born died in the late 12th century, but his legacy as a troubadour and poet has endured to this day. His music and poetry continue to inspire musicians and poets around the world, and his influence can be seen in the many works of art and literature that have been created in his honor.

More....