Antiphon - Polyphonic Votive Antiphons

Polyphonic Votive Antiphons

Polyphonic votive antiphons emerged in England in the 14th century as settings of texts honouring the Virgin Mary separately from the mass and office, often after compline. Towards the end of the 15th century English composers produced expanded settings for as many as nine parts with increasing complexity and vocal range. The largest collection of such antiphons is the late 15th century Eton choirbook. As a result antiphony remains particularly common in the Anglican musical tradition: the choir, often divided into two equal halves on opposite sides of the quire, is then regarded as two, termed Decani and Cantoris.