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J. Anthony Allen

Welcome to the

This class is for anyone who has wondered about the origins of music, how it came to be, and where it came from. 

In this course, we will look at the world during the renaissance (approximately 1300 - 1600), through the lens of music. This period begins with the church dominating most music, but ends with "the reformation", in which many churches split off from the catholic church, which had a big impact on the music in those churches. We will also look at what was happening outside of the churches musically, including songs, instruments, minstrels, choirs, and more.

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Welcome to the

This class is for anyone who has wondered about the origins of music, how it came to be, and where it came from. 

In this course, we will look at the world during the renaissance (approximately 1300 - 1600), through the lens of music. This period begins with the church dominating most music, but ends with "the reformation", in which many churches split off from the catholic church, which had a big impact on the music in those churches. We will also look at what was happening outside of the churches musically, including songs, instruments, minstrels, choirs, and more.

100% Answer Rate. Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

Topics Covered: 

  • Politics of the world during the renaissance

  • Europe during the renaissance

  • Musical training

  • The music of Jusquin Desprez

  • The age of the castrato

  • New compositional techniques in the renaissance

  • New tuning systems in the renaissance

  • The dawn of printed music

  • The music of John Dunstable

  • The polyphonic mass

  • The music of DuFay

  • Chanson

  • The music of Busnoy

  • The Mass in the renaissance

  • The music of Ockeghem

  • The reformation's effects on music

  • Music in the Lutheran church

  • Music in the Calvinist church

  • Music in the Church of England

  • Catholic music after the reformation

  • Jewish music

  • The amateur musician

  • The development of song in Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and England

  • The Italian madrigal

  • Instruments of the renaissance

  • Dance Music

  • And much, much more.

Dr. Allen is a university music professor and is an award-winning instructor. In 2017 Star Tribune Business featured him as a "Mover and a Shaker," and he is recognized by the Grammy Foundation for his music education classes. 

While a lot of history courses focus on memorization, this is a course for those interested in immersing themselves in the music and culture. You won't find lists of dates to memorize here - this class is designed to be fun and enjoyable.

In this course, we will focus the entire course on the renaissance period. 

By the end of this course, if you follow along, you will be ready to win the dinner party with your knowledge of the Renaissance and the unique aspects of the music that was happening during this exciting period of history.

Please click the "Take This Course" button so you can start learning about the history of music TODAY.

I guarantee that this course is the most thorough music history course available ANYWHERE on the market - or your money back (30-day money-back guarantee - as per Udemy policy)

Closed captions have been added to all lessons in this course.

Praise for Courses by Jason Allen:

⇢  "It seems like every little detail is being covered in an extremely simple fashion. The learning process becomes relaxed and allows complex concepts to get absorbed easily. My only regret is not taking this course earlier." - M. Shah

⇢  "Great for everyone without any knowledge so far. I bought all three parts... It's the best investment in leveling up my skills so far.." - Z. Palce

⇢  "Excellent explanations.  No more or less than what is needed." - A. Tóth

⇢  "VERY COOL. I've waited for years to see a good video course, now I don't have to wait anymore. Thank You. " - Jeffrey Koury

⇢  "I am learning LOTS.  And I really like having the worksheets. " - A. Deichsel

⇢  "The basics explained very clearly - loads of really useful tips. " - J. Pook

⇢  "Jason is really quick and great with questions, always a great resource for an online class. " M. Smith

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • In this course, students will learn about the music that was happening during the renaissance, and the social and political environments that influenced it.
  • Students will learn how early polyphony was a keystone to renaissance music, and become a hotly debated item during the reformation.
  • Students will learn how songs developed all over europe simultaneously in germany, france, england, spain, and other countries.

Syllabus

Introduction
Settings and adaptations
Copyright Information
List of Listening Examples
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the social and political environments that influenced music during the Renaissance, offering a comprehensive understanding of the era
Examines the development of songs across Europe, including Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and England, highlighting the diverse musical landscape of the time
Details the evolution of early polyphony and its significance in Renaissance music, including its role as a debated topic during the Reformation
Discusses the impact of the Reformation on music within various churches, including Lutheran, Calvinist, Church of England, and Catholic traditions
Covers the rise of secular music and various song forms, such as the Italian madrigal, providing insights into the non-religious musical practices of the Renaissance
Taught by an award-winning university music professor recognized by the Grammy Foundation, which may indicate a high standard of instruction

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Reviews summary

Engaging renaissance music history

According to students, this course offers a deep and engaging dive into the history of music during the Renaissance period. Learners highlight the instructor's passion and expertise, finding his explanations clear and easy to follow. The course is praised for covering a broad range of topics, including sacred and secular music, instruments, and the socio-political context, moving beyond simple memorization. Many feel it provides a solid foundation and makes the subject approachable for beginners while still being rewarding for those with some prior knowledge. The focus on understanding the historical context is a particular strength noted by reviewers.
Accessible even without prior music knowledge.
"Even as a complete beginner, I could follow along and learn a lot."
"Great for everyone without any knowledge so far."
"The course makes complex concepts accessible."
"I felt this course built a very solid foundation for understanding the period."
Emphasizes historical and social setting.
"The course does a great job of placing music within its historical context."
"Understanding the politics and culture really enhanced my learning."
"It's not just about dates and names, but why and how the music developed."
"I learned a lot about the reformation's impact on music."
Covers broad range of Renaissance topics.
"Loved the depth of topics covered, from polyphony to madrigals."
"The course goes into sufficient detail on various composers and styles."
"Explores sacred, secular, and instrumental music effectively."
"I appreciated the focus on different European regions during the Renaissance."
Instructor is knowledgeable and engaging.
"The instructor was fantastic and really made the history come alive."
"Dr. Allen is incredibly knowledgeable and shares his passion effectively."
"Excellent explanations and the instructor's enthusiasm is contagious."
"I found the teacher's lectures very insightful and easy to understand."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Complete History of Music, Part 2: The Renaissance with these activities:
The Enjoyment of Music
Provide a broad overview of music history and appreciation, including the Renaissance period.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Enjoyment of Music'.
  • Read the sections on the Renaissance period.
  • Take notes on key composers and musical styles.
Review Basic Music Theory
Reinforce understanding of fundamental music theory concepts relevant to Renaissance music.
Show steps
  • Review scales, chords, and key signatures.
  • Practice identifying intervals and rhythms.
  • Study basic counterpoint principles.
Compile a Renaissance Music Listening List
Immerse yourself in the sounds of the Renaissance by curating a diverse collection of musical examples.
Show steps
  • Research prominent Renaissance composers.
  • Find recordings of their key works.
  • Organize the recordings into a playlist.
  • Listen actively and take notes.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss Renaissance Music with Peers
Enhance understanding through collaborative learning and discussion of course concepts.
Show steps
  • Organize a study group with classmates.
  • Prepare discussion questions about Renaissance music.
  • Share insights and perspectives.
Write a Short Biography of Josquin Des Prez
Deepen understanding of a key Renaissance composer by researching and writing about his life and works.
Show steps
  • Research Josquin Des Prez's life and career.
  • Identify his most important compositions.
  • Write a concise and informative biography.
A History of Western Music
Gain a comprehensive understanding of Western music history, with a focus on the Renaissance period.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'A History of Western Music'.
  • Read the chapters on the Renaissance.
  • Analyze the musical examples provided.
Create a Presentation on Renaissance Instruments
Explore the instruments of the Renaissance and their role in the music of the period.
Show steps
  • Research Renaissance instruments.
  • Gather images and audio examples.
  • Create a presentation with informative slides.
  • Present your findings to others.

Career center

Learners who complete The Complete History of Music, Part 2: The Renaissance will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Music Historian
A music historian researches, analyzes, and interprets musical compositions, performances, and cultural contexts throughout history. This role often involves archival research, writing scholarly articles and books, and presenting findings at conferences. This course focusing on the Renaissance, helps build a foundation for understanding a pivotal era in music history. The lectures on composers like Josquin Desprez and Guillaume Dufay offers insights into the lives and works of important figures during that time. The course's exploration of the Reformation's impact on music and the development of song across Europe helps Music Historians understand the Renaissance period.
Musicologist
Musicologists conduct research and analysis of music from historical and theoretical perspectives, often holding advanced degrees. This course dedicated to the Renaissance, helps build a strong foundation in the music of this period. The course's detailed exploration of composers, musical forms, and the cultural contexts of Renaissance music, is necessary for advanced research in musicology. The course on the complete history of music is valuable to Musicologists.
Museum curator
Museum curators manage and interpret collections of artifacts, often specializing in a particular area such as music history. This course examining the Renaissance, offers a detailed perspective on the musical instruments, compositions, and cultural practices of the time. The course's exploration of topics like the dawn of printed music, the development of song, and the instruments of the Renaissance helps Museum Curators develop engaging exhibitions and educational programs. With this course, museum curators gain a broader understanding of music of this period.
Music Critic
The role of a music critic is to evaluate and analyze musical performances, recordings, and compositions, providing insightful commentary for publications or online platforms. This course, provides a valuable historical context for understanding the evolution of musical styles and forms. The course's examination of the Renaissance period, including the politics of the time, and the development of new compositional techniques, helps Music Critics contextualize current musical trends and offer informed critiques. An understanding of the Renaissance musical landscape is essential for music critics.
Historical Instrument Maker
Historical instrument makers research and construct replicas of instruments from specific historical periods. This course on Renaissance music, helps build a deeper understanding of the instruments used during that era. The course's exploration of musical instruments and dance music, provides valuable insights into the construction and use of instruments during the Renaissance. The course on the instruments of the renaissance may be useful to Historical Instrument Makers.
Film Score Composer
A film score composer writes original music for movies, television shows, and other visual media, enhancing the emotional impact of the scenes. This course that explores Renaissance music, provides film score composers with a foundation in historical styles and compositional techniques. The course's exploration of the music of Josquin Desprez, new compositional techniques, and instrumental music may help Film Score Composers create period pieces. The course on the complete history of music is valuable to Film Score Composers.
Orchestrator
An orchestrator arranges musical compositions for an orchestra, assigning different instruments to specific parts and ensuring a balanced and effective sound. This course in Renaissance music helps build a knowledge of the historical context and instrumentation of the time. The course's exploration of instrumental music, dance music, and the instruments of the Renaissance, helps orchestrators recreate authentic sounds. The course may be useful to Orchestrators.
Choir Director
A choir director leads and manages a choir, selecting repertoire, conducting rehearsals, and preparing the group for performances. This course exploring Renaissance music, helps build an appreciation for the choral music of that era. The examination of polyphonic masses and the music of composers like Josquin Desprez, provides insight into the techniques and styles prevalent during the Renaissance. The course's coverage of sacred music during the Reformation helps Choir Directors understand the historical context of music used in various religious settings. The course may be useful to Choir Directors.
Music Librarian
A music librarian manages and preserves musical scores, recordings, and other resources, assisting researchers and musicians in accessing these materials. This course focusing on Renaissance music, helps build a comprehensive understanding of the musical landscape of that period. The course's examination of topics like printed music, composers, and the development of song, provides Music Librarians with the knowledge to catalog and curate their collections effectively. This course may be useful to Music Librarians.
Music Teacher
A music teacher instructs students in music theory, performance, and appreciation, often working in schools or private studios. This course exploring the Renaissance, helps build a deeper understanding of music history. The course's coverage of topics like musical training during the Renaissance, new compositional techniques, and the development of song across Europe, helps Music Teachers design engaging lessons and provide context for their students. The course may be useful to Music Teachers.
Ethnomusicologist
An ethnomusicologist studies the music of different cultures, examining its social, cultural, and historical contexts. This course on Renaissance music, provides a foundation for understanding the development of Western music during a transformative period. The course's exploration of song in different European countries, Jewish music, and the impact of the Reformation, helps Ethnomusicologists understand the cultural influences that shaped the music of this time. The course on the complete history of music may be useful to Ethnomusicologists.
Opera Singer
An opera singer requires advanced vocal skills and acting ability to perform in operatic productions. This course exploring the Renaissance, provides opera singers with a valuable understanding of the historical context and musical styles of early opera. The course's exploration of the age of the castrato, the Italian madrigal, and vocal music helps opera singers to understand these early forms of vocal expression. The course on the complete history of music may be useful to Opera Singers.
Arts Administrator
Arts administrators oversee the operations of arts organizations, managing budgets, coordinating events, and developing marketing strategies. This course exploring Renaissance music, provides a strong background for understanding the historical context and artistic significance of musical works from that era. An understanding of the political influences on music during the reformation, also helps Arts Administrators contextualize classical works. Understanding the music of the Renaissance may be useful to Arts Administrators.
Music Producer
A music producer oversees the recording, mixing, and mastering of music, working with artists to achieve their desired sound. This course devoted to the Renaissance, provides music producers with a historical understanding of musical styles and techniques. The course's exploration of new compositional techniques and instrumental music may help music producers find inspiration for modern music. The course on the complete history of music may be useful to Music Producers.
Music Arranger
The work of a music arranger involves adapting existing musical compositions for different instruments, ensembles, or styles. In this course you will learn the Renaissance, and this period's new compositional techniques, new tuning systems, and printed music. A music arranger can use this knowledge to adapt musical compositions. The course on the complete history of music may be useful to Music Arrangers.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Complete History of Music, Part 2: The Renaissance.
This widely used textbook for music history courses. It provides a comprehensive survey of Western music from ancient times to the present. The Renaissance section covers major composers, genres, and stylistic developments. It good resource for students seeking a broad overview of music history.
Popular textbook for introductory music appreciation courses. It provides a broad overview of music history, including a section on the Renaissance. It is useful for those without a strong musical background. It offers a good balance of historical context and musical analysis.

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