Missa de Beaeta Virgine – Josquin des Prez

Missa de Beaeta Virgine by Josquin des Prez

The Flemish composer Josquin des Prez completed this adaptation of the Ordinary of the Mass in 1510. The composer was in late his 50’s at the time, but it is unclear exactly what age, consensus around the year of birth for des Prez ranges between 1450 and 1455. It would be one of the last works that des Prez would complete before his death in 1521.

The composer was working as the provost of the collegiate church of Notre-Dame in the region of Condé-sur-l'Escaut (on the border of what is now France and Belgium). Des Prez was given this role 1504 and he would hold this position until his death. In this role, des Prez would be responsible for the administration of the church as well as all associated staff.

This particular Mass is noted for its departure from the orante contrapuntal style dominant in the 15th century, and into a form where the text is clearer allowing the words to be understood and the emotion of the words tied more closely to the music.

This adaptation includes the five standard sections off the Ordinary of the Mass:
I. Kyrie
II. Gloria
III. Credo
IV. Sanctus
V. Agnus Dei