Jacob Obrecht (1457/58 – late July 1505) was a significant Renaissance composer, whose influence on the polyphonic style of the late 15th century was profound. Born in Ghent, Obrecht emerged as a noteworthy figure in the Franco-Flemish school, serving various roles, including choirmaster and composer, in churches across the Burgundian territories in the Low Countries. His compositional output is primarily centered around sacred music, including masses, motets, and songs, although a few secular works survive.

Obrecht's approach to composition was innovative and sophisticated for his time. He was known for his intricate use of canon and his ability to weave complex contrapuntal textures while maintaining a clear melodic line. The masses for which he is best remembered often feature generous melodic imitation and reveal a masterful handling of musical architecture. His work was widely respected by contemporaries, and his influence is reflected in the later works of Josquin des Prez and other 16th-century composers. Obrecht's compositions, such as "Missa Maria zart" and the various masses mentioned in the list, have been rediscovered and recorded in modern times, allowing new audiences to appreciate his rich and texturally dense sacred music.

Genres

Early Music

Early Music Ensemble

Franco-flemish School

Renaissance

Related Artists

Josquin des Prez

Johannes Ockeghem

Heinrich Isaac

Guillaume Dufay

Pierre de la Rue

Claudio Monteverdi

Michael Praetorius

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

William Byrd

Gilles Binchois

Thomas Tallis

Heinrich Schütz

Latest Release

Obrecht: Scaramella

The Binchois Consort•

Josquin des Prez•

Andrew Kirkman•

Jacob Obrecht

Album - 24 Tracks - Released August 30, 2024