Cardinal College, where Taverner worked, was founded by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Archbishop of York and Chancellor of England, who was the most powerful man in the country after the king.
Compositional Technique
Taverner's Missa Gloria tibi trinitas takes its title from the plainchant it is based upon, a melody heard repeatedly, mainly in fully-scored sections, as a long-note cantus firmus.
Composition History
Taverner's Ave Maria likely dates from his time at Cardinal College, Oxford, and may have been among his most frequently performed pieces there.
Interpretation
On this recording, the solo sections are performed by members of Contrapunctus, and the full sections by all voices (Contrapunctus and Queen's Choir).
Composer Biography
John Taverner, the composer, was appointed as the first master of the choristers at Cardinal College, Oxford, in 1526.
Compositional Technique
The chant melody from Taverner's Mass setting of 'In nomine Domini' became the basis for a whole repertory of textless pieces known as 'In nomines'.
Compositional Technique
English composers of sacred music before the Reformation, including Taverner, often contrasted sections for full vocal forces with sections for just two, three, or four parts.
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