Learning to play medieval music is a historical and artistic hobby that involves studying and performing music from roughly the 5th to 15th centuries. It blends historical research, musical skill, and craftsmanship, offering a unique way to connect with the past. Enthusiasts often play period-appropriate instruments, learn medieval notation, and explore the cultural context of the music.
Key Aspects of the Hobby
1. Choosing an Instrument
Medieval music features a variety of unique instruments, including:
• Stringed Instruments
- Lute – A plucked string instrument, precursor to the modern guitar.
- Hurdy-Gurdy – A crank-driven, droning string instrument.
- Harp – A small, portable harp was common among traveling musicians.
- Vielle – A medieval bowed string instrument, similar to a violin.
• Wind Instruments
- Recorder & Flute – Simple woodwind instruments used in folk and court music.
- Bagpipes – Various regional styles were used for lively dance music.
- Shawm – A loud, double-reed instrument, ancestor of the oboe.
Percussion
- Frame Drums – Played with hands or sticks, providing rhythm.
• Tabor – A small drum often played alongside a pipe (whistle).
• Nakers – Small kettledrums, often played in pairs.
2. Learning Medieval Musical Styles
• Gregorian Chant – Monophonic (single-line) sacred music sung in Latin.
• Troubadour & Minstrel Songs – Secular songs of love, chivalry, and storytelling.
• Dance Music – Lively, rhythmic pieces like the estampie and saltarello.
• Early Polyphony – Late medieval compositions with multiple vocal or instrumental parts, such as Ars Nova music.
3. Understanding Medieval Notation
Medieval music is written in different forms of notation, such as neumes (used in chant) or mensural notation (early rhythmic notation). Some hobbyists enjoy transcribing old manuscripts or learning to read period notation.
4. Playing with Historical Authenticity
• Using historically accurate playing techniques.
• Performing in period costume at reenactments, medieval fairs, or Renaissance festivals.
• Exploring tuning systems, as medieval instruments used different scales and temperaments than modern ones.
Benefits of Playing Medieval Music
• Musical Skill Development – Enhances technique, ear training, and improvisation.
• Historical Immersion – A hands-on way to experience medieval culture.
• Creative Expression – Encourages composing or improvising in medieval styles.
• Community Engagement – Many musicians perform at reenactment events, historical societies, or with early music ensembles.
This hobby is great for musicians interested in history, whether they play alone or in groups. Would you like recommendations for beginner-friendly medieval instruments?