The Most Famous Composer of the Medieval Period, Ranked

Choose the composer you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 07:05
In the dimly lit halls and splendid courts of the Medieval period, music began to flourish in ways that would shape the future of sound. However, despite their profound impact, the identities and contributions of these early composers often remain shrouded in mystery. By creating a ranked list of the most famous composers from this era, we open a portal to a pivotal time in music history. This ranked list offers a unique opportunity: you, the reader, have the power to vote and impact the standings of these ancient maestros. Through your votes, not only do you learn about the pivotal figures of early musical composition, but you also help highlight those who have resonated most with modern audiences. Dive into the echoes of centuries past and cast your vote to honor the architects of melody and rhythm.

Who Is the Most Famous Composer of the Medieval Period?

  1. 1
    53
    votes
    Hildegard von Bingen
    Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain
    Hildegard was a German Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, philosopher, and visionary of the Medieval period. Her music is known for its mystical and contemplative qualities.
    Hildegard von Bingen in other rankings
  2. 2
    32
    votes
    Guillaume de Machaut
    AnonymousUnknown author · Public domain
    Machaut was a French poet and composer of the 14th century. He is known for his secular and sacred music, as well as his contributions to the development of polyphonic music.
  3. 3
    26
    votes
    Leonin was a French composer of the late 12th and early 13th century. He is known for his work in developing the polyphonic style of music known as organum.
  4. 4
    22
    votes
    Perotin was a French composer of the late 12th and early 13th century, and a student of Leonin. He is known for his contributions to the development of polyphonic music, and his use of rhythmic modes.
  5. 5
    13
    votes
    Adam de la Halle was a French poet, musician, and playwright of the 13th century. He is known for his secular songs and plays, which often dealt with courtly love and chivalry.
  6. 6
    13
    votes
    Francesco Landini
    Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain
    Landini was an Italian composer of the 14th century, known for his secular and sacred music. He is also known for his skill as a performer on the organetto, a type of small organ.
  7. 7
    3
    votes
    Garlandia was a French composer and music theorist of the 13th century. He is known for his treatises on music theory, as well as his compositions in the polyphonic style.
  8. 8
    3
    votes
    Vitry was a French composer, poet, and music theorist of the 14th century. He is known for his contributions to the development of the Ars Nova style of music, as well as his treatises on music theory.
  9. 9
    13
    votes
    Hilarius was a German composer of the 13th century. He is known for his compositions in the polyphonic style, as well as his work as a music theorist.
  10. 10
    6
    votes
    Dunstaple was an English composer of the early 15th century. He is known for his contributions to the development of the English style of polyphony, as well as his use of complex harmonic structures.

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Ranking factors for famous composer

  1. Historical significance
    The composer's impact on the development of music during the medieval period is an important factor to consider.
  2. Body of work
    The quantity and quality of the composer's surviving pieces can also be considered in determining their fame.
  3. Influence on later periods
    If a composer's work had a significant impact on later periods of music history, this can also contribute to their fame.
  4. Cultural significance
    The cultural context in which a composer lived and worked can also be a factor, as their music may have religious, political, or social implications that have affected their legacy.
  5. Recognition
    The level of recognition that a composer has received historically, including the number of performances and recordings of their works, can also contribute to their fame.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous composer of the Medieval period. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Composer is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1354 views
  • 184 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Composer once every 24 hours. The rank of each Composer is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most famous composer of the medieval period

During the Medieval period, music played an important role in the daily life of people. Composers of this era created music for religious and secular purposes, and their works were performed in churches, courts, and public spaces. Despite the limited technology and resources available, Medieval composers produced a vast body of work that continues to be appreciated today. When it comes to the most famous composer of the Medieval period, many experts point to Hildegard von Bingen. This German nun was a prolific composer, writer, and philosopher who lived in the 12th century. Her compositions include sacred chants and liturgical dramas that were performed during religious services. Her music was known for its unique style and polyphonic harmonies, and she is considered one of the most important composers of her time. Other notable composers from the Medieval period include Guillaume de Machaut, Perotin, and Leonin. These composers also contributed significantly to the development of music during their time, and their works continue to inspire musicians and music enthusiasts alike.

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