Medieval Workshop

Explore some of the most popular tunes of the 14th–16th centuries with members of Blondel Medieval & Renaissance wind band.

'Cover Story' is Blondel's ongoing project exploring the ways in which music was transmitted, reworked and repurposed in the 14th–16th centuries. During this period examples can be found of melodies that occur in manuscripts found across Europe and over the course of decades. Some remain remarkably unchanged in multiple sources. Others turn up with new words, either through translation or altered context, such as secular to sacred. Popular folk songs formed the basis for complex counterpoint or dazzling instrumental ornamentation.

In this workshop Blondel band members Emily Baines and Belinda Paul will each introduce participants to a collection of arrangements of one of these tunes. Together the group will explore how they developed over time from one composer to the next.

All historical instruments are welcome. Basic sight-reading required. Pitch A=440. Please bring your own music stand.