Guillaume Dufay

Guillaume Dufay began his meteoric musical career as a choirboy at Cambrai Cathedral in 1409. Before his death, Dufay would lead the papal chapel, consort with popes and dukes, collaborate with Donatello Brunelleschi, and be considered the first composer of the Renaissance. His birthdate is unknown -- the suggestion of 1397 stems from the date of his priestly ordination -- but his lengthy contact with Cambrai Cathedral and the Vatican, combined with some indicators in his music, means that his life is quite well-documented. His choirboy service lasted until his voice broke in...