Western Plainchant
David Hiley
Abstract Plainchant is the oldest substantial body of music that has been preserved in any shape or form. It was first written down Western Europe wake Carolingian renaissance 8th and 9th centuries. Many thousands chants have sung at different times places a multitude forms styles, responding to differing needs church through ages. This book provides clear concise introduction, designed both for those whom subject new who require reference work advanced studies. begins with an explanation liturgies which plainchant serve. All chief genres chant, types liturgical book, notations are described. The later chapters complemented by plates, commentary transcriptions. After exposition early medieval theoretical writing on plainchant, historical survey follows constantly changing nature repertory from earliest restoration chant century ago. relations between Gregorian, Old-Roman, Milanese, Spanish, other repertories considered. Important musicians centre composition discussed, together establishment Gregorian all lands Europe, reformations revisions carried out religious orders humanists. Copiously illustrated over 200 musical examples transcribed original sources, highlights diversity practice richness characteristic Middle Ages. As self-contained summary also, its many pointers further reading, handbook research, it will become indispensable this vast subject.
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