Composer

:

Guillaume de Machaut

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Ballata

Average_duration

:

6:17

'Plourez dames' is a lament composed by Guillaume de Machaut, a French poet and composer of the 14th century. The piece was likely composed in the 1350s and is part of a larger collection of works known as the 'Livre dou Voir Dit'. The premiere of 'Plourez dames' is unknown, but it was likely performed in the court of John II of France, where Machaut was employed as a court musician. The piece is written for three voices, with the melody carried by the tenor voice and the upper voices providing harmonies and counterpoint. The piece is characterized by its mournful melody and text, which laments the death of a noblewoman. The text is written in the form of a dialogue between the composer and a group of women, who are encouraged to weep and mourn for the deceased. The music is structured in a series of repeated phrases, with each repetition building in intensity and emotion. The piece is notable for its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which were relatively new techniques in the 14th century. Machaut uses these techniques to create a sense of tension and emotional intensity, heightening the impact of the text. Overall, 'Plourez dames' is a powerful example of Machaut's skill as a composer and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. Its haunting melody and poignant text continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless masterpiece of medieval music.

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