|
In music, the term sequence has two unrelated
meanings. The first is the repetition of a melodic phrase,
usually by steps of a tone (higher or lower), and with or
without harmony. When all voice parts are repeated more or
less exactly in a rising or falling pattern, the term harmonic
sequence is used. The second is a liturgical form following
directly upon the Alleluia at mass, and sometimes based on
the Alleluia initially, but continuing as a freely invented
composition. Some of the earliest examples were written by
Notker Balbulus (c.840-912), who fitted verses to the lengthy
sequence melodies, primarily as an aid to memory. The poetry
is closely linked to the feast, and the music is rhapsodic.
Renaissance composers set sequences for alternating chant
and polyphony until the Council of Trent (1545-63) banned
all except four sequences: Victimae Paschali Laudes (Easter),
Veni Sancte Spiritus (Whitsun), Lauda Sion (Corpus Christi),
and Dies Irae (Requiem Mass). Later (1727), the Stabat Mater
was allowed as the sequence for the Feast of the Seven Dolors
of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
 |
 |
|
- 
