Meaning of Triplum in Music
In the context of medieval polyphony, **triplum** refers to one of the voices in a polyphonic composition. The term "triplum" comes from the Latin word "triplex," meaning "triple" or "third," and it indicates the third and highest range of voices in a composition. The triplum voice is sung above the tenor part, which carries the main melody, and the alto part. It is important to note that the term "triplum" is specific to medieval polyphony and is not commonly used in contemporary music terminology.
Development of Polyphony
Polyphony, the combination of multiple melodic lines, was a significant development in Western music during the medieval period. The use of multiple voices allowed for more complex and harmonically rich compositions. The development of polyphony occurred between the years 850 and 1300. During this time, composers began to experiment with different textures, harmonies, melodic motions, and text settings. The designation of voices in polyphonic compositions included terms such as tenor, duplum, triplum, and quadruplum.
Organum and Motet
The term "triplum" is often associated with the genre of organum, which is a form of polyphony that combines chant with additional voices. Organum compositions were prevalent during the medieval period, particularly at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Composers such as Leonin and Perotin were known for their contributions to the development of organum. Triplum voices were commonly used in organum compositions, along with other voices such as tenor, duplum, and quadruplum. Additionally, the term "triplum" is also used in the context of motets, which are polyphonic compositions with newly added texts in each voice.
Conclusion
In summary, the term "triplum" in music refers to one of the voices in a polyphonic composition, particularly in the genres of organum and motet. The triplum voice represents the third and highest range of voices in a composition and is sung above the tenor and alto parts. The term "triplum" is specific to medieval polyphony and is not commonly used in contemporary music terminology
The third part in a Medieval polyphonic composition.
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