Ferrabosco Fantasias - Stylistic Observations
Bruce Bellingham
Fantasia 2 (Meyer no. 5)
The first of three g dorian pieces. Thematic transformations from 1st section to 2nd: 1a becomes 2a; 1b becomes 2b - aspects of a monothematic treatment of restricted materials. Builds climax by increasing diminution of these materials in close imitation. Canzona-style motives, treated in ricercar complexity and logic.

View the complete analysis here *.

Listen to examples of the motives:
Motive 1a: mp3 wav Real Audio wma
Motive 1b: mp3 wav Real Audio wma
Motive 1c: mp3 wav Real Audio wma
Motive 2a: mp3 wav Real Audio wma
Motive 2b: mp3 wav Real Audio wma


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†Sound clips are from "Alfonso Ferrabosco II: Four-Part Fantasias". CD Recording, Viola da Gamba Society -- New England, 25th Anniversary Project, Sarah Mead, Producer (2002). Reproduced by permission.