Profile of Adrian Willaert

Born:

Between 1480 and 1490.

Birthplace:

Uncertain, either Bruges or Roulers, Netherlands.

Died:

December 7, 1562, Venice.

Also known as:

Founder of the Venetian School, pioneer of abstract instrumental music and one of the most versatile composers of the Renaissance

Type of Compositions:

He composed masses, motets, psalms, chansons and madrigals for 4 to 7 voices.

Musical Work:

Among his work are several masses, instrumental ricercari, motets and secular songs in French and Italian. Among his famous works are O Magnum Mysterium, J'ayme bien mon amy and Dulces exuviae.

Interesting Fact:

He first studied law before deciding to study music.