Welcome back to Between the Barlines! I have a very exciting episode for you today because we’re taking a deep dive into one of the most pivotal developments in Western music: the rise of polyphony in the 13th century! We have been so focused on monophonic songs, including a trip to the church for Gregorian chant and a trip to places like France for the songs of the troubadours and trouvères and Germany for the Minnesingers! By the 13th century, something extraordinary was happening: melodies started weaving together, creating a tapestry of sound that would forever change the way we experience music. So how did this shift happen? Who were the key players? And why was the 13th century such an important period for polyphony? Let’s find out!

Viderunt omnes (Pérotin): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oaRM1uDsw8