Music Appreciation Week 1

PART I: SACRED MUSIC

Hildegarde von Bingham (1098 - 1179) was not just a composer but also a writer, philosopher, mystic, Benedictine abbess and visionary as well.
She wrote theological and medicinal texts as well as liturgical dramas, poems, songs and letters.

Here is a video of Lynn Maxwell playing Hildegard von Bingen talking about her life:

(Lynn Maxwell is a mezzo-soprano who has been involved in musical theatre and cabaret.)

The instrument that Lynn Maxwell is cranking is called a hurdy gurdy.

Now that you've gotten to know Hildegarde a little more, let's listen to an

excerpt from "The Voice of the Blood". Close your eyes, be still and let this music transport you to a peaceful Benedictine abbey.

PART II: MINSTRELS

Here is an excellent and entertaining video piece by Monty Python's Terry Jones. It gives us some insight into the true life of a minstrel:

Here is some authentically performed music of the troubadours.

The CD is pictured below if you'd like to purchase it.

Here are some pictures of Medieval instruments:

sackbut

shawn

crumhorn

tabor

Now you are ready to complete this weeks' scavenger hunt. Click below.

Music Quiz