Guilliame de Machaut

Notre Dame Mass

Notre Dame Mass• 1st polyphonic treatment of mass ordinary by

known composer• Mass ordinary: consists of text that remains the

same from day to day throughout church year• Five sung prayers: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo , Sanctus ,

Agnus Dei• Polyphonic since 14th century• In service, Kyrie and Gloria sung in succession• Others separated by liturgical activity and by

other texts sung in Gregorian chant

Notre Dame Mass

• Written for 4 voice parts• No record on how Machaut wanted mass to

be performed-assumed 4 solo voices• Our recording : two tenors and two basses• Probably composed in early 1360s for

performance at cathedral of Reims

Agnus Dei

• Prayer for mercy and peace• Music solemn and elaborate• Triple meter; complex rhythms contribute to its intensity• Two upper parts rhythmically active and contain syncopation• Two lower parts have longer notes and play a supporting role• Based on gregorian chant; Machaut modified with new

rhythmic patterns and placed the chant in the tenor

Agnus Dei (Machaut)

• Chant (canctus-firmus) rhythmically altered within polyphonic texture; more of a musical framework than separate tune

• Harmonies include stark dissonances, hollow chords and full triads

• Three sections; same text appears in each section (see vocal music guide)

• Three sections represent Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)