Untersuchungen zur Struktur der Erstsoggetti in den Motetten Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrinas

In this volume, Jochen Brieger helps us to comprehend the compositional processes and choices that were decisive in bringing about the beginning introductory part to a motet. The author thereby uses his comprehensive analysis of the subjects of motets by the notable Italian composer Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina.

In the three main chapters on melody, rhythm and compositional techniques he first examines the key parameters individually before discussing their interplay and weighting. At the same time, this study contributes towards a better understanding of composing in the Renaissance, by raising the issue of the conditions which actually made the work of such a prolific composer as Palestrina possible.>