A critical analysis of the performance practices of the positive, portative, and regal organs of Western Europe in the thirteenth through sixteenth centuries

• Main Author: Howell, Richard Alan
• Other Authors: Jackson, Philip T.
• Format: Others
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: Organ (Musical instrument) > History.; Organ music.
• Online Access: http://cardinalscholar.bsu.edu/handle/handle/182664; http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/387352

The writer has examined the performance practices of the positive, portative, and regal organs in both the sacred and secular genre. Throughout the research the aspect of the prominent position of the church and its dogmatic practices were demonstrated to be highly influential in the usage of the organ. Church accounts of payments to various organ builders are the principal source of the information concerning the liturgical function and organ placement within the church. The secular aspect of the performance practices of the small organs was dominated by the religious dramatic mystery and miracle presentations and the various court entertainments. The utilization of the organ in both the sacred and secular genres was an important link in the lessening of the church's dominance over the people of the time.The development of musical styles and the progressive accumulation of construction and acoustical properties was directly proportional to the development and evolution of these small, organs. The span of the three centuries analyzed in the thesis were the most critical years in this process of evolvement.The vocal and instrumental forms were explored in regard to the function of the organ as a solo or ensemble member. Specific circumstances of employment have been investigated as to the nature and the probable organ model indicated for a specific performance situation.In addition, the thesis has analyzed prominent composers, performers, and writers whose contributions were influential during their lifetime and in the course of music performance practices in general. === School of Music