This book is a full and complete transcription of the first of four volumes of guitar music published by Guillaume Morlaye in 1552, "Le Premier Livre de Chansons, Gaillardes, Pavannes, Bransles, Almandes, Fantaisies." These pieces reflected the style, esthetic, and complexity of contemporary French court music, including songs and choral works.

Guillaume de Morlaye (c. 1510-c. 1558) was a true Renaissance man. We know him primarily as a lutenist, composer, music teacher and music publisher. He also was very active as a merchant, he also was involved in art engraving and even...