Paschal de L'Estocart

The compositional style of L'Estocart set him apart from contemporary composers. His harmonies were quite bold including augmented 5ths and 6ths especially in enigmatic orders. Unusual intervals were also a part of his striking style. L'Estocart was concerned about depicting the textual material through the music which lead him to these qualitative distinctions. Although he was influenced by the Italian style, none of his music was concerned with secular themes. His compositions dealt with religious themes in austere Huguenot consistency. As a young man he visited Italy often resulting in the Italian influence. The opportunity was aforded him via a ten year gift from Henry III so that L'Estocart could publish his works. He made many conections with the Protestant nobles and accordingly was informed by the Reformation perspective. The primary genre of his musical settings were vocal works including arrangements for two to seven voices. Manners of setting included quatrains and motets. ~ Keith Johnson