Composer

:

Josquin Des Prez

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Average_duration

:

39:46

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Josquin Des Prez's 'Missa Malheur me bat' is a polyphonic mass composed in the late 15th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written during Josquin's tenure as a singer and composer at the Sistine Chapel in Rome. The mass is based on the chanson 'Malheur me bat' by Johannes Ockeghem, which was a popular secular song at the time. The 'Missa Malheur me bat' is divided into six movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Agnus Dei I, and Agnus Dei II. Each movement is characterized by its intricate polyphony, with multiple voices weaving in and out of each other to create a rich and complex texture. The mass is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), with each voice given equal importance and complexity. One of the most notable characteristics of the 'Missa Malheur me bat' is its use of imitation. Throughout the mass, the different voices imitate each other, creating a sense of unity and coherence. This technique is particularly evident in the Kyrie and the Gloria, where the voices take turns singing the same melody in a staggered fashion. Another notable characteristic of the mass is its use of dissonance. Josquin employs dissonant harmonies and unexpected chord progressions to create tension and drama. This is particularly evident in the Credo, where the voices clash and resolve in unexpected ways. The 'Missa Malheur me bat' premiered in the late 15th century, likely in Rome. It quickly became one of Josquin's most popular works, and it has remained a staple of the choral repertoire to this day. Its intricate polyphony, use of imitation, and bold harmonies continue to captivate audiences and inspire composers centuries after its composition.

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