Josquin Desprez

Josquin Desprez was one of the greatest composers of the Renaissance, celebrated for his profound influence on Western music. Serving prestigious courts in Milan, Ferrara, and the papal chapel, he became a master of masses, motets and chansons. By blending traditional cantus firmus techniques with innovative counterpoint, canon and parody, he moved beyond abstract medieval styles. Martin Luther famously praised him as the "master of the notes", noting that while other composers followed the rules of music, Josquin made the music follow his creative will.