The Blog

13 TH CENTURY

THE POLYTEXTUAL MOTET IN THE 13TH CENTURY

BACKGROUND:
• Developed in the 13th century
• An important stage in the development of polyphony
• New texts were added to the upper voices of Organum
• Secular texts often appeared alongside sacred texts, languages were mixed

CHARACTERISTICS:
• Usually in the 3 voices
• Bottom voice contained cantus firmus
• Featured primary intervals 4th, 5th and octaves
• Upper voices were generally more rhythmically active and often crossed parts.