Renaissance means 'rebirth'. It was called like that as Europe lived a renewed interest in learning and culture, centring in particular on many of the Ancient Greece and Rome ideas.
New geographical discoveries were made, explorers like Columbus made their great voyages.
CHURCH MUSIC (RELIGIOUS MUSIC)
- Choral polyphony style
- Sung a capella (without instrumental accompaniment)
- Most important forms: mass and motet (in four parts, composers began to add the bass part)
- Music based on modes
- Use of the
'cantus firmus' (not a plainchant anymore)
- Imitation (imitative texture)
- England:
anthems. They are like motets but sung in English
VENICE, THE POLYCHORAL STYLE
- Music for more than one choir
- A dialogue between the two choirs is produced
- Gabrielli
MUSIC IN GERMANY
- The Protestant church led by Martin Luther gave more importance to the people in the religious service
- Hymns were written to be sung by the whole congregation: the German chorale
SECULAR MUSIC
Italy: frottola and madrigal
Spain: villancico
German: lied
France: chanson
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

Canzona
Ricercar
Toccata
Variations
Fantasia
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