Cantigas

The cantiga is a musico-poetic genre originating from the Iberian Peninsula during the 13th and 14th centuries, spanning both secular and paraliturgical traditions. This programme features a selection of diverse cantiga styles:

Cantigas de amigo by Martim Codax (songs for a ‘friend’, written from a female perspective). Cantigas de amor by King Denis of Portugal (courtly love songs composed from a male perspective). Cantigas de Santa Maria by anonymous composers (hymns in honour of the Virgin Mary).