36th Annual Student Research Conference
An Analysis of the Transition From the Renaissance to the Baroque Through the Lens of Monteverdi's Madrigals
Robert L. Cagle♦
Dr. Mark Jennings, Faculty Mentor
Claudio Monteverdi was a leading figure of musical composition in both the late Renaissance and early Baroque eras. Although his earlier musical style is strongly influenced by the leading Renaissance composers of the time, he pioneered a new musical style which became a leading force in the transition to the Baroque era. His new musical style involved treating the text of the music as the most important facet of the composition, rather than the harmony. To Monteverdi, the text was the master of the harmony, not the other way around. His new style was controversial, leading him to defend his choice in writing where he clearly defined a prima pratica (older style), and seconda pratica (new style). Monteverdi’s move from Renaissance to Baroque composition can be nicely defined by the transformation of his compositional style, and his creation of seconda pratica, throughout his nine books of madrigals.
Keywords: Music History, Renaissance, Baroque, Monteverdi, Madrigals, Vocal Music, Composition
Topic(s):Music
History
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 101-5
Location: SUB Alumni Room
Time: 9:30