Coming to a universal understanding of certain terms related to the motet is essential in comprehending the genre. Discantus is a technique that combines two modal parts containing the same amount of notes. Organum combines the modal voice with only one note in the tenor, while copula is a type of discantus that actually combines features of both of the previous techniques. The motet Alleluia Posui adjutorium uses copula, as evidenced by a passage in which the borrowed material appears in the first rhythmic mode with several longae separated into two breves. In these instances, the line is manipulated in one of two ways. Sometimes a plica is used, in which a line is added to the final note of a ligature to show the division of the note into two. Other times, the line is placed after a note to denote a rest or pause. In the case of this motet, a plica is utilized.

Works: Motet: Alleluia Posui adjutorium (85-87).

Sources: Judea et Jerusalem (85).

Index Classifications: Polyphony to 1300

Contributed by: Rebecca Dowsley