Muzyka wielogłosowa w katedrze gnieźnieńskiej

Abstract

The article presents a cross-sectional view of musical activity in Gniezno Cathedral from the 16th century to the present day. It attempts to summarize the various polyphonic compositions performed there over the centuries. The development of polyphonic music contributed greatly to the displacement of Gregorian chant, cultivated in the cathedral church since the dawn of time. Musical direction was always given by moderators, who were successive Kapellmeisters, later called directors of music and then directors of the cathedral choir. Some of them, being composers, also provided the musicians with their own works. The vocal and instrumental repertoire represents a variety of musical styles, ranging from religious polyphony to the Viennese classics, the Romantics and contemporary works. Its selection was always determined by the ensemble’s performance capabilities.