jan 1, 1475 - Ave Maria...Virgo Serena

Description:

The most famous motet by Josquin.

A Model Masterpiece
1. Josquin’s motet Ave Maria … virgo serena demonstrates many
elements of his compositional style.
2. Its influence was widespread, and as an example of “perfected art” it
represents what many composers afterward sought to attain—it set the standard.
3. The text divides into three sections.
4. The music illustrates ideals espoused by humanist rhetoricians.
5. A detailed analysis of these characteristics includes the following:
a. The relationship between the chant and the first point of
imitation
b. Syllabic (or not) setting of the text
c. The pace at which voices enter in imitation
d. The use of cadences
e. Meter
f. Harmonic variety
g. Style of counterpoint

Imitations
Several composers used Josquin’s Ave Maria … virgo serena as a
springboard for their own compositions.
“Imitation,” or “parody,” Mass is the term scholars use to designate
Masses that rework polyphony from pre-existing work.

1. Because Josquin’s Ave Maria…virgo serena encapsulates a new
philosophy of composition, for many years scholars considered it a late work.
2. Recently, evidence surfaced that suggested it might date from early in
the composer’s career

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