Lieder (fast) ohne Noten. Gelegenheitsdrucke Meders als sozialhistorische und musikalische Quellen

Abstract

From Riga, Tallinn (Reval), Gdańsk (Danzig) and Bremen around 20 printed examples of occasional works by Johann Valentin Meder (1649–1719) have survived. Few of these actually include music; however, the type and structure of the texts as well as some of the composer’s designations regarding genre reveal a varied corpus of work, ranging from Generalbassaria (strophic basso continuo aria) through concerto cum aria and dialogue to what Meder calls Cantata. The dedications, allusions in the texts and other details enable us to observe how Meder, as musician and man, positioned himself with respect to prospective patrons and the upper classes as well as towards music lovers. On one hand, the characteristics of the music, where it has survived, together with hints as to the nature of the music in others where it has not can shed some light on questions concerning the urban and corporate networks of Meder’s time. On the other, they enable us to make assumptions and draw conclusions about some of Meder’s other works not included in this corpus which have been preserved in manuscript.