John Dunstaple: Fascinating Works and Lasting Influence
John Dunstaple (c. 1390–1453) was a pivotal English composer whose music bridged the late medieval and early Renaissance periods. His innovations, particularly in harmony and polyphony, profoundly influenced both English and Continental European music. Immerse yourself in the fascinating music by this medieval English composer with STAGE+. Known as one of the foundational figures in the development of English polyphony, Dunstaple's works resonate with deep, mesmeric harmonies and progressive tonal structures.
Key Themes in Dunstaple’s Music
Dunstaple’s works are central to the shift towards richer harmonies and greater expressive nuance, moving away from stricter medieval traditions to a more modern, Renaissance sound. He was the leading figure in the Contenance Angloise ("English manner") style, marked by full, triadic harmonies with prominent use of thirds and sixths, which sounded sweeter and more consonant than the open intervals of earlier medieval music. All of Dunstaple’s surviving music is vocal, including masses, motets, settings of liturgical offices, Marian devotions, and secular songs. He often used isorhythms—a structural technique that repeats rhythmic patterns—while pioneering new harmonic approaches.
Dunstaple’s Influence and Legacy
Dunstaple’s style had immense impact on renowned contemporaries such as Guillaume Dufay and Gilles Binchois. Martin le Franc’s Champion des dames (c. 1440) credits their superiority to what they learned from Dunstaple’s “English manner”. During his life, and for generations after, Dunstaple's music enjoyed broad appreciation, spreading across Europe and helping to define the sound of the 15th century.
Notable Works and Recordings
One of the highlights includes 'Music for St Katherine of Alexandria,' a unique collection of 15-century English music that offers a significant insight into the sacred musical practices of the period. Bringing to life late medieval English music with an infusion of spiritual depth is 'The Lily & the Rose: Adoration of the Virgin.'
Our 'English Motets: From Dunstaple to Gibbons,' is a journey through time, tracing the evolution and innovation of English Motets. 'Music for the 100 Years' War (1337-1453),' provides a dramatic, auditory recount of the turmoil and tenacity reflected during the 100 years war.
'Beneath the Northern Star: The Rise of English Polyphony (1270-1430)' is a compilation that tracks the progression of polyphonic music in England. 'The Spirits of England & France 5' and 'The Spirits of England & France 3' present music that reflects the cultural and political connections between England and France over the course of the 15th century.
Concluding our collection is 'The Service of Venus and Mars: Music for the Knights of the Garter (1340-1440),' an anthology that takes listeners back to the days of knights and chivalry through music.
Experience the nuances and intricacies of Dunstaple's works played by renowned ensembles such as The Binchois Consort led by Andrew Kirkman, The Gesualdo Six under the guidance of Owain Park, Orlando Consort, and Gothic Voices directed by Christopher Page. Experience music history with STAGE+ and revel in the resonating sounds of John Dunstaple.