La Bataille
Staff Notation • Secular, Chansons
5 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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La Bataille by Clément Janequin — Lyrics
About La Bataille
Clément Janequin's La Bataille is a vivid sonic depiction of a military engagement, originally conceived as a secular French chanson for four voices. The text immediately immerses the listener in the sounds and actions of war. Trumpets and drums signal the advance, while soldiers are urged to clash their weapons and charge like lions. The music captures the chaos and energy of the battlefield, from the puffing of firearms to the calls for alarm. It also celebrates the French king, 'Françoys', and the fleur-de-lis, culminating in a triumphant fanfare. This is Renaissance program music at its most energetic, a thrilling and detailed sound-painting intended to entertain and excite.