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Philippe de Vitry

Type Figure Region France Time 1291–1361 Also known as Philippe de Vitry、Philippus de Vitriaco、Philippe de Vitri

Philippe de Vitry (1291–1361) was a French composer, poet, music theorist, and cleric, often credited as author of Ars Nova, secretary to three Frenc…

Timeline

  1. 1291–1322Paris · ParisBorn 31 October 1291. Sources call him a master, and he is generally thought to have studied at the University of Paris. Ordained deacon in his youth, he entered the Capetian court's chancery system, laying the groundwork in Latin and law for his later theoretical writing and diplomatic career.
  2. 1322–1330Paris · ParisThe Ars Nova treatise of about 1322 is usually attributed to him (modern scholarship debates sole authorship). It introduced shorter note values and a new mensural system, making motet rhythms far more flexible than Franco's old system, and is linked with isorhythmic techniques.
  3. 1328–1351Avignon · AvignonServed Charles IV, Philip VI, and John II, and was repeatedly sent as envoy to the papal court at Avignon. In 1346 he also took part in the siege of Aiguillon. Petrarch called him 'the keenest seeker of truth of our time,' showing his reputation as a philosopher rivaled that as a musician.
  4. 1351–1361Meaux · MeauxAppointed Bishop of Meaux by Clement VI in 1351, he continued to move in court and scholarly circles, including the mathematician Nicole Oresme. About a dozen motets survive. Died 9 June 1361.

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