Frauenlob

Frauenlob, which was a pseudonomic device attributed to this composer for his love of the virgin and his love of the chivalric lady (similarly `Frouwe'), composed songs primarily concerning Mary and the love of a lady of chivalry. He was associated with many secular and sacred lords such as Wenceslas II, Waldemar, Archbishop Peter of Aspelt, and the Mainz Cathedral. The German "Spruch" -- songs tending toward recitation -- may have found its early manifestations (at least influence) in the works of Frauenlob. He was considered to be one of the "fathers" of The Meistersingers though not the founder. The style of his songs was heavy and somber with melodic extended melismas. Within the content of his works was a profound respect for nature and god combined with an extremely learned scope. ~ Keith Johnson