Ruth I. DeFord's book explores how tactus, mensuration, and rhythm were employed to articulate form and shape in the period from c.1420 to c.1600. Divided into two parts, the book examines the theory and practice of rhythm in relation to each other to offer new interpretations of the writings of Renaissance music theorists. In the first part, DeFord presents the theoretical evidence, introduces the manuscript sources and explains the contradictions and ambiguities in tactus theory. The second part uses theory to analyse some of the best known repertories of Renaissance music, including works by Du Fay, Ockeghem, Busnoys, Josquin, Isaac, Palestrina, and Rore, and to shed light on composers' formal and expressive uses of rhythm. DeFord's conclusions have important implications for our understanding of rhythm and for the analysis, editing, and performance of music during the Renaissance period.

Winner, 2016 Wallace Berry Award, Society for Music Theory

'DeFord’s study provides a thorough overview of the aspect of Renaissance music that is the most difficult for our modern ears and minds to understand: rhythm. While the introductory chapters would serve as an excellent introduction to Renaissance rhythm for upper-level undergraduates or graduate students, the general organization of DeFord’s volume will make it useful for a variety of populations and purposes. The wealth of music examples included, many of which are transcribed by DeFord herself, is yet another strength of the book. Tactus, Mensuration, and Rhythm in Renaissance Music is an important contribution to Renaissance scholarship.

Kimberly Hieb Source: Notes