O muzykach, muzyce i jej funkcji na renesansowym dworze ostatnich Jagiellonów

Abstract

ON MUSICIANS, MUSIC AND ITS FUNCTION AT THE RENAISSANCE COURT OF THE LAST JAGIELLONIANS

The times of Sigmuntus’ constitute a very attractive period, particularly for the historians of culture, and are the object of constant inquiry focused on the Renaissance issues. The article aims to present in the widest context the mutual relationships between music, life and culture of the royal court. The last Jagiellonians did not differ in their musical preference from other European rulers. Their generous attitude towards musicians should be stressed (they maintained direct contact with them; awarded privileges; cared about appropriate remuneration). The patronage of Sigmuntus the Old and Sigmuntus Augustus contributed to a large extent to the raising of the musician’s social status and the creation of a climate conducive to the development of outstanding artistic personalities. The rule of the last two Jagiellonians was a golden age for Polish music. All the most distinguished composers of the Renaissance were to be found at the court of Sigmuntus Augustus. The music of the 16th century still possessed applied character and served mainly as a setting of everyday life. Among various functions music served at the royal court, primarily its utilitarian role is imminent (representational, liturgical, martial, hunting, feasting). Its didactic values were also appreciated. During the reign of Sigmuntus Augustus it began slowly to perform the artistic function as well. Owing to the royal court the modernisation of life and Polish custom took place in the upper, and partly in the middle, spheres of society. Life in many areas took on more cultural, European forms, characterised by greater refinement and delicacy. Social forms were being moulded and repeatedly a certain need for elegant life was marked. One of the Jagiellonian greatest merits was the fact of common accessibility of the court musicians’ results of work. Performances of bands, at the service of Jagiellonians, were available to a wider part of society. The city took part in the national celebrations, feasts, masquerades, and felt united with the events at the Wawel Castle.