Tielman Susato: The Pioneer of Music Publishing in the Low Countries
Tielman Susato was a multifaceted figure of the Renaissance—a calligrapher, instrumentalist, composer, and visionary entrepreneur. While his early origins remain a subject of scholarly debate, his impact on the dissemination of music in Northern Europe was profound. By establishing the first music publishing house using movable music type (a system of individual pieces of type for notes and rests) in the Low Countries, Susato shifted the center of musical production from Italy, France, and Germany toward the vibrant city of Antwerp.
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Key Facts
- Innovation: Founded the first music publishing house using movable music type in the Low Countries in 1543.
- Location: Operated his business in Antwerp at "At the Sign of the Crumhorn."
- Musical Versatility: Skilled in the trumpet, flute, and tenor pipe.
- Major Publication: Published the highly influential Souterliedekens by Clemens non Papa.
- Legacy: His work paved the way for other major publishers like Christopher Plantin and Petrus Phalesius the Elder.
Early Life and Professional Beginnings
The exact birthplace of Susato is unknown, though historians suggest he may have originated from the town of Soest in either Westphalia or the Netherlands, as his name "Susato" translates to "de Soest." By 1530, records in Antwerp archives identify him as a professional calligrapher and a talented instrumentalist who owned a trumpet, flute, and tenor pipe.
The Revolution of Music Printing
In 1543, Susato transformed the musical landscape of the Low Countries by establishing his press in Antwerp. Before this venture, music printing was dominated by southern European hubs. Susato's press, located "At the Sign of the Crumhorn," catalyzed a regional boom in publishing. He was soon followed by Christopher Plantin in Antwerp and Petrus Phalesius the Elder in Leuven, collectively turning the region into a center for music distribution.
Beyond printing, Susato may have operated a musical instrument business. While he attempted to form several partnerships with other publishers, these efforts were unsuccessful. In 1561, his son Jacob Susato took over the business, though Jacob passed away in 1564. Tielman Susato eventually moved to Alkmaar in North Holland and later to Sweden, with the final known record of him appearing in 1570.
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Contributions as a Composer
Susato was not merely a businessman; he was an accomplished composer whose work spanned several genres. He produced books of masses and motets written in the imitative polyphonic style—a technique where different voice parts echo or mimic one another—which was characteristic of the era.
Vocal and Choral Works
To support emerging musicians, Susato composed two books of chansons specifically for young or inexperienced singers, limiting the arrangements to only two or three voices. However, his most influential publication was the Souterliedekens by Clemens non Papa. These were metrical psalm settings in Dutch that utilized popular song tunes, making them immensely popular across the Netherlands during the 16th century.
Instrumental and Dance Music
Susato's instrumental compositions remain relevant today. In 1551, he published Het derde musyck boexken ... alderhande danserye, a collection of artistic yet simple dance pieces, including forms such as allemandes and galliards.
Editorial Influence and Legacy
As a publisher, Susato often dedicated his works to prominent local citizens and showed a strong preference for Flemish composers. He was a pioneer in promoting the works of the acclaimed late Renaissance composer Orlande de Lassus, and he frequently devoted entire volumes to single composers, such as Manchicourt and Crecquillon.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Role | Music Publisher, Composer, Calligrapher |
| Key Innovation | First movable music type press in the Low Countries (1543) |
| Notable Publications | Souterliedekens (Clemens non Papa), Dance music (1551) |
| Instruments Played | Trumpet, Flute, Tenor Pipe |
| Modern Namesakes | Susato Trio; Kelischek Workshop woodwind line |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Tielman Susato born?
His exact birthplace is unknown, but scholars believe he may have come from the town of Soest in either the Netherlands or Westphalia, based on the meaning of his name.
What was Susato's biggest contribution to music history?
He founded the first music publishing house using movable music type in the Low Countries in 1543, which helped establish Antwerp as a major center for music publishing.
What are the Souterliedekens?
The Souterliedekens, written by Clemens non Papa and published by Susato, are metrical psalm settings in Dutch that used popular tunes of the time.
What kind of instrumental music did Susato compose?
He composed a variety of instrumental music, most notably a 1551 book of dance music featuring forms like galliards and allemandes.
Who took over Susato's publishing business?
His son, Jacob Susato, took over the business in 1561, though Jacob died shortly after in 1564.