Date of Graduation

1978

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess critically the works of Philippe Basiron (three masses, three motets, and eight chansons) and also deal with problems of authenticity and biography. Only a few scholars have shown an interest in this composer and most of their findings have been preliminary in nature. He is thought to have been identical with Philippe de Bourges, Philippe de Bruges, and Philippon, all recorded in various sources from the 15th century. Evidence to support these claims is quite scanty, but the association between the names Philippe Basiron, Philippon, and Philippe de Bourges appear most probable. Stylistic considerations are consistent with the hypothesis that Basiron was bo m sometime during the 1430*s and reached artistic maturity about the seventh decade of the century. The masses and motets are quite representative of a number of late 15th century stylistic features, i.e., the extensive use of the c.f., the growing use of imitation, the distribution of melodic interest in voices other than the superius, and the use of textural contrast. His secular pieces exhibit traits associated with the transformation in style from the old, predominantly Burgundian, style consisting of a melodically interesting top voice over a two-voice harmonic base to a style riasoemably more Italianate in sound and construction.. This transformation, as represented in the works of the Franco-Flemish composers, was the result of increased contact with Italy. One of its more important features, the delight in chordal harmony, is a recurrent feature of Basiron’s style. From all indications it would seem that Basiron was highly respected by his contemporaries as he was on several occasions associated in name with the more illustrious composers of the age. In comparison, his contributions rank him as a composer of only peripheral importance; however, a serious consideration of his corpus reveals many passages of artistic merit. Though modest, his works are of inestimable historical value, that is, as a partial barometer of a style in evolution.

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