Fauxbourdon

Fauxbourdon, also known as fauxbordon or false drone, is a musical harmonization technique that emerged during the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance. It was particularly popular among composers of the Burgundian School, with Guillaume Du Fay being one of its most prominent practitioners.

Description In its simplest form, fauxbourdon involves three voices moving in parallel motion. The cantus firmus, or main melody, is accompanied by two other parts: one a sixth below and the other a perfect fourth below. This creates a rich, harmonious texture that allows the text of the mostly liturgical lyrics to be understood clearly.

Historical Context The earliest explicit example of fauxbourdon can be found in a manuscript compiled around 1435, which includes several examples by Du Fay. The technique was used to create a "sweet" sound, contrasting with the more dissonant and open sonorities favored in earlier music2.

Usage Fauxbourdon was primarily used in sacred music, such as hymns and psalms, where clear enunciation of the text was essential. It was also employed in more elaborate compositions, where the fauxbourdon texture could be varied and ornamented.

Legacy Fauxbourdon played a significant role in the transition from medieval music to the more harmonious polyphony of the Renaissance. It influenced the development of musical composition and remains an important technique studied by music historians and theorists.