Fascinating Works by Baude Cordier
Embark on a melodic journey through time and explore the fascinating works of Baude Cordier with STAGE+. Known for his pioneering contributions to the French musical technique of Ars subtilior, Cordier's compelling compositions remain crucial game-changers in the realm of music. His reputation rests not only on the musical innovation of his surviving works, but also on his experimental approach to notation.
Notational Innovation
Cordier’s manuscripts are as visually striking as they are musically inventive. Two of his most famous pieces are preserved in the Chantilly Codex and are celebrated for their symbolic notation. In "Belle, bonne, sage" ("Beautiful, Good, Wise"), a love song uniquely notated in the shape of a heart, the top section of the heart contains the main melody, while two other voices are cleverly incorporated at the bottom, reinforcing the song’s amorous theme through its very layout. In "Tout par compas suy composé," the music is arranged in a circular shape to reflect its endless, perpetual nature. This piece is a canon—where voices follow each other at fixed intervals—emphasizing the idea of musical infinity by having the notation literally form a loop.
Historical and Artistic Context
Little is known about Cordier’s personal life, though an inscription supports the belief that he was born in Rheims, with the date of birth uncertain, and he died before 1440. His association with the playful and intellectual Ars subtilior style places him among the era's most fascinating musical figures. The creative marriage of visual art and complex musical technique in his work exemplifies the late Gothic spirit, making his music a touchstone for those interested in the intersection of medieval art and sound.
Legacy
Though only a handful of works can be confidently attributed to him, Cordier is remembered as an innovator who pushed the boundaries of musical composition and notation. The Lancaster and Valois: French & English Music, c. 1350–1420 showcases the captivating contrasts and overlapping influences of English and French music during the periods, serving as a testament to the intriguing dynamics of cross-channel cultural exchange.
This event, led by the England-based ensemble, Gothic Voices, under the accomplished direction of Christopher Page, brings to life the full-bodied resonance of French and English music, paying special homage to Baude Cordier's exceptional creativity. Join us as we decode the nuances of these historical masterpieces and revel in their timeless appeal.
Relive the enchanting sonorities of the 14th and early 15th centuries, nestled amidst the artful tension caused by the Hundred Years War, uniquely expressed through the rhythm and melody of music. Dive deep into the world of intricate polyphony with Cordier's works, shining a light on the power of music as repositories of significant historical and cultural narratives.
Discover the intoxicating blend of the French 'mannered' style and English 'contenance angloise' with STAGE+. Let Baude Cordier's riveting compositions transport you back in time, appreciating the enduring legacy of French and English music from c. 1350–1420.