Final answer:
Machaut's chanson 'Ma fin est mon commencement' showcases his musical style in the Medieval period, including the use of isorhythm, the concept of hierarchy in music, and the heavy and solemn character of medieval music.
Step-by-step explanation:
The chanson 'Ma fin est mon commencement' by Machaut is a prime example of his musical style in the Medieval period. In this chanson, Machaut cleverly uses a musical technique called 'isorhythm' to organize the piece. Isorhythm is when a repeating rhythmic pattern (known as a talea) and a repeating melodic pattern (known as a color) are combined. This creates a sense of unity and structure in the composition.
Machaut's chanson also showcases the medieval concept of hierarchy in music. The voices are arranged in a strict order, with the tenor providing the foundation and the upper voices adding melodic embellishments or harmonies. This reflects the hierarchical nature of society during the medieval period, where different classes had specific roles and responsibilities.
Additionally, 'Ma fin est mon commencement' demonstrates the heavy and solemn character of medieval music. The use of instruments such as the vielle and the recorder, which have a rich and resonant sound, contributes to the weightiness of the composition. This contrasts with modern music, which often employs lighter and more varied instrumentation.