Composer

:

Johannes Ockeghem

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Chanson

Average_duration

:

4:38

'Au travail suis' is a chanson composed by Johannes Ockeghem, a prominent composer of the Franco-Flemish School in the late 15th century. The piece is believed to have been composed around 1460-1470, during Ockeghem's tenure as a singer and composer at the court of Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy. The chanson is written for four voices, with the text in French. It is structured in three distinct sections, each with its own melody and rhythm. The first section is in duple meter and features a lively, syncopated rhythm. The second section is in triple meter and is more lyrical and flowing, with a gentle, lilting melody. The final section returns to duple meter and features a more complex, contrapuntal texture. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Au travail suis' is its use of imitation, a technique in which one voice introduces a melody or rhythm that is then echoed by the other voices. This creates a sense of unity and coherence throughout the piece, while also allowing for subtle variations and embellishments in each voice. Another notable feature of the chanson is its use of word painting, a technique in which the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, in the opening lines of the piece, which describe the singer's busy workday, the music is fast-paced and energetic, with a sense of urgency and motion. Later in the piece, when the text describes the singer's longing for his lover, the music becomes more tender and expressive, with a slower tempo and more flowing melody. Overall, 'Au travail suis' is a masterful example of Ockeghem's skill as a composer, showcasing his ability to create complex, multi-layered textures while also maintaining a sense of clarity and coherence. Its lively rhythms, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies make it a beloved work of the Renaissance repertoire.

More....