Josquin des Prez and His Musical Legacy: An Introductory Guide

by William Elders

Josquin des Prez and His Musical Legacy is the most up-to-date contribution to the research on one of the most important and internationally famous composers of the Renaissance. This book offers factual information on the composer as well as insights into his 16th-century and modern reception, a survey of the sources of his music, and a discussion of the thorny issue of authorship. Willem Elders, one of the most distinguished scholars of Josquin's music, also discusses the influence of Gregorian chant as a source of inspiration and explains the various aspects of Josquin's symbolic language. Each individual work, including some of those in the old Josquin edition now considered inauthentic) receives a short discussion of relevant contextual aspects and interesting musical features. Ranges and lengths are given for each work. The style is adapted to the professional musicologist as well as to the music lover and performer.

Genres: Music

248 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 2013

Reviews

[Fauré · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only 3 stars because most of the content reads like a mere anecdotal enumeration of facts. A thorough comparison with contemporary composers and predecessors would have helped to make clear what Josquin's musical legacy is all about. There's definitely something missing in this introductory guide.

[Alex Stephenson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A reference more than it is a reading experience. The detailed discussions of each of Josquin's works are enlightening.