The influence of cori spezzati Technique on the Music of the Czech Lands. The Case of Pavel Spongopaeus Jistebnický
Abstract
The paper focuses on one of the most prolific Czech composers of Renaissance period Pavel Spongopaeus Jistebnický (c1560-1619). His compositional output was influenced by the cori spezzati technique more than of any other author in the Czech lands.
Spongopaeus is known today as a composer of twenty-six settings of complete masses (each containing an ordinary and proper of the mass), seven separate ordinaries, seven separate propers, twenty-three motets, two psalms, and minor compositions such as hymns, invitatories, Magnificats, responsories, and songs. His works are composed for four to eight voices.
Special attention is devoted to the models that served as a basis for Spongopaeus' settings of the mass. Concerning his compositional skills in general, he was a very flexible artist who fully mastered traditional Franco-Flemish imitative counterpoint as well as modern double-choir texture.