1

What is the word/adjective that could describe music pieces similar to Allegri's "Miserere" or Henry Ley's "A Prayer of King Henry VI"?

This music appears to be be sung a capella, with a four-voice choir. (The word I am looking for would be a substitute for gregorian in the sentence: "I really like [gregorian] music!")

|improve this question
3

In describing the epoch, you would speak of Renaissance music. Describing the form you would speak of a motet, which implies music sung a capella or just with instruments doubling the human voices.

|improve this answer
  • I think that motet is the noun I was looking for. Thank you! – ebosi Oct 12 '18 at 8:00
2

Renaissance polyphony is a term often used for this, which neatly encompasses both the period and the form.

|improve this answer
1

I'm aware of the terms church music or religious music, since mass seems too specific. No term restricting this to a cappella comes to mind and since your examples span some centuries, an epoch-denoting term like Gregorian is not appropriate.

|improve this answer
  • BTW the term is "a cappella" with two p's. (Even though there's only one in "chapel".) – Rosie F Oct 11 '18 at 7:02
  • @RosieF: Thank you for the hint, which I considered; in German the Italian term is valid with an explanation like "also, at least historic: capella". – guidot Oct 11 '18 at 7:11

Your Answer

By clicking "Post Your Answer", you acknowledge that you have read our updated terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy, and that your continued use of the website is subject to these policies.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.