Zephyrus

Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, King of Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, was a central figure in some of the most pivotal moments in history, from the Reformation to the Atlantic slave trade. He was not only a powerful monarch but also a great patron of music, employing at his court some of the most celebrated composers of his day. Zephyrus traces Charles’s life through the music that accompanied it—his favorite chanson, written by Josquin; wedding and coronation masses by Gombert and Morales; motets marking political victories; and music composed for the emperor’s funeral.