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Composer

Heinrich Isaac

1450 — 1517

Albums

The Florentine Renaissance: Florence’s Golden Age Under the Medici
Orlando Consort
Josquin's Legacy: Motets of the 15th & 16th Centuries
The Gesualdo Six, Owain Park
Isaac: Missa Wohlauff gut Gsell von hinnen & Other Works
Cinquecento
The Cradle of the Renaissance: Music from the Time of Leonardo da Vinci
Sirinu
Sacred & Secular Music from Six Centuries (1000-1600)
The Hilliard Ensemble

Overview of Heinrich Isaac and His Renaissance Legacy

Heinrich Isaac (c. 1450–1517) was a highly influential Netherlandish composer during the Renaissance, recognized as one of the most celebrated singers and composers of his generation alongside Josquin des Prez. Isaac composed masses, motets, songs (in French, German, and Italian), and instrumental music, contributing significantly to the sacred and secular repertoire of his era.

Key Works and Their Context

Isaac's music thrived in Florence under Medici patronage, placing him at the cultural heart of the Florentine Renaissance. His ability to assimilate the spirit of different regions—Italian in Florence, German in Innsbruck—demonstrates his exceptional versatility and innovation.

Immerse yourself in the Florentine Renaissance, exploring the contribution of Heinrich Isaac under the patronage of the powerful Medici family. Discover how the blend of religious and secular themes in Isaac's music mirrored the cultural and political dynamic of Florence during this golden era.

Notable Works

Isaac's compositions ranged from secular chansons to sacred motets and mass cycles. His works, such as 'Missa Wohlauff gut Gsell von hinnen', accurately reflect the uniquely ornamental style of Isaac's compositions. Inspired by religious themes and the human condition, these works are a testament to the mastery that Isaac demonstrated in his music composition and delivery.

Influence on National Styles

Isaac played a pivotal role in the development of the Tenorlied in Germany, arranging popular melodies in the tenor voice while weaving intricate counterpoint around them. This became a hallmark of German music, influencing native composers long after Isaac's death.

Featured Ensembles and Performances

The enduring appeal of Isaac’s work is reflected in contemporary performances by renowned vocal ensembles such as the Orlando Consort, The Gesualdo Six (directed by Owain Park), Cinquecento, and Sirinu.

Listen to the Orlando Consort's exquisitely performed motets from the 15th and 16th centuries, revered as one of Josquin's most influential legacies, showcasing Isaac's involvement in shaping the future of polyphony.

Join Cinquecento as they perform the highly influential 'Missa Wohlauff gut Gsell von hinnen' and other works, crafted in the style of the Florentine Renaissance that Isaac was very much a part of.

Experience hauntingly beautiful compositions by Isaac, through performances by The Gesualdo Six, conducted by Owain Park. This exploration of Isaac's work offers a fresh perspective on his musical legacy.

Intrigue your senses with 'The Cradle of the Renaissance: Music from the Time of Leonardo da Vinci', performed by Sirinu. This collection provides a shared glimpse into the artistic brilliance that both Leonardo and Isaac demonstrated in their respective fields during the same era.

Discover the secular and sacred music from six centuries (1000-1600) performed by the renowned Hilliard Ensemble. These pieces beautifully encapsulate the evolution of music over this period, with contributions from composers like Isaac.