GYMEL Meaning and
Definition
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Gymel, also known as "gymell" or "gyme," is a medieval musical term that refers to a type of polyphonic composition that emerged in the 14th century in England. It is a choral style characterized by the simultaneous singing of two or more parts in harmony, typically consisting of two voices singing in parallel motion at an interval of a third or sixth.
The word "gymel" itself is derived from the Middle English word "gyme," which means "twin" or "pair." This is an apt name for this musical form, as it involves the pairing of voices that move together in harmonious intervals, creating a distinct and pleasing sound.
Gymel compositions often appeared within larger works, such as motets or Masses. They were particularly prominent in English polyphonic music during the medieval and early Renaissance periods. The genre flourished from the late 13th century until the 15th century before evolving into more complex polyphonic styles.
Gymel compositions are typically written with two equal voices, creating a rich and unified sound. The melodies are frequently homophonic, with both voices moving in parallel motion. However, there may also be instances of contrapuntal writing, where the voices intertwine in intricate and independent melodic lines.
The gymel style was influential in the development of sacred polyphonic music, particularly in England. Its use of parallel harmonies and distinctive vocal pairings laid the foundation for subsequent polyphonic techniques and compositions.
Common Misspellings for GYMEL
- fymel
- vymel
- bymel
- hymel
- yymel
- tymel
- gtmel
- ggmel
- ghmel
- gumel
- g7mel
- g6mel
- gynel
- gykel
- gyjel
- gymwl
- gymsl
- gymdl
- gymrl
- gym4l
Etymology of GYMEL
The word "gymel" derives from the Old French term "jumeau", meaning "twin" or "paired", which eventually came to refer to a particular style of medieval polyphonic music. In English, "jumeau" was anglicized to "gemel" or "gymel" around the 14th century. The term "gymel" specifically denotes a type of vocal music in which two voices move together, often at a perfect interval such as a third or sixth, creating a harmony that resembles a twin melody. The word gradually fell out of usage in the late Middle Ages and Renaissance periods but has been revived by musicologists to categorize this specific type of medieval polyphony.
