Secular vocal music in the monasteries of Upper Austria

The results of following studies demonstrate the high value attached to secular vocal music in the Upper Austrian monasteries. At the same time they indicate the historical significance of the monasteries in Austrian music history. Our research provided detailed results concearning the representative and recreative function of music within the monastic set of values. The proof of inensive exchanges between secular and spiritual cultural centers emphasises the high degree of innovation in the music of the monasteries and points to their important role as a transmitter of cultural values. The cultural achievement of the monasteries attained a new dimension in the "confederative" principle which was based on super regional orders and cultural connections. The music shows a high degree of transformational effect which is shown in the development of new stylistic, formal and practical performance norms. Our examination of financial expenditures revealed interesting details. The source material emphasises impressive expenditures for performance materials, instruments, musicians salaries as well as theater and performance halls. Looking at these expenditures it was possible to prove differences between the various orders as well as historical and personal connections. In depth analysis concearning musical personnel provided a strong statement concearning the high level of cultural achievement. The size of the ensembles, the quality of the musicians and their social position point to the high level of monastery performances. Broad-range reconstruction of data shows the high conformity of financial commitment and performance practice within the different orders. These studies demonstrate how music is influenced by social and political factors. The most significant influence in the development of music was marked by the reforms of emperor Joseph II. They signify the end of an epoch during which culture was oriented at the houses of nobility and mark the beginning of a fundamental reorientation. The cultural developments of the first decaces of the 19th century led to relativize the creative nature of music production in the monasteries. The emphasis shifted towards reproduction and the development of music was limited to musical smaller forms. The monasteries received new impulses from the initiatives of the new local bourgeois culture.