Ep 22. Rockin' Renaissance

In Horrible Histories season 1 episode 22, titled "Rockin' Renaissance," viewers are taken on a musical journey through one of the most dynamic periods in European history. The show explores the transition from the medieval times to the Renaissance era and how this profound change affected music.

The episode begins by highlighting the limitations of medieval music, which was mainly church-based and relied heavily on vocal harmonies. The show then takes viewers on a tour of the new ideas, technologies, and instruments that emerged in the Renaissance period. We get to see the invention of printing, which made sheet music widely available, and the rise of the lute, a new stringed instrument that added depth and complexity to music.

As the episode progresses, we're introduced to some of the Renaissance period's most prominent composers, including Josquin des Prez, who wrote some of the most innovative and beautiful music of the time. The show uses humor and skits to make these historical figures more relatable to young viewers. For instance, we're shown how Josquin got his start in music by singing in a choir, and we get to hear some of his most famous works, accompanied by amusing animations.

In addition to featuring prominent composers, the episode focuses on the musicians who played their music. We're introduced to talented instrumentalists like Diego Ortiz, who wrote some of the earliest published music for the viola da gamba, a precursor to the cello. We see the development of dance music, which became a popular form of entertainment at the time, and learn that the upper-class often hired musicians to play for them during meals and gatherings.

Throughout the episode, the show's hosts guide viewers through the most significant events and ideas that shaped Renaissance music. We learn about the invention of equal temperament, which allowed more versatility in tuning musical instruments, and we see how the printing press helped to spread music across Europe. We also get a first look into the lives of the people who made music their life - the composers, performers, and patrons, who shaped the beautiful music of the Renaissance, and allowed it to become such an integral part of our world today.

As is typical of Horrible Histories episodes, the show brings humor into serious subjects like classical music history, making it an excellent way to introduce kids to the very important music of the Renaissance period. With its entertaining skits, well-crafted animations, and clever songs, "Rockin' Renaissance" is a fun and engaging exploration of the music of one of the most important periods in European history.