Meistergesang

Form of sung poetry that developed in Germany during the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished in the 16th. It was performed solo by members of guilds of Meistersinger (mastersingers), according to strict rules of versification and music.

At first religious but later also secular, Meistergesang developed out of the medieval courtly love song (Minnesang) as poetry and music became forms of relaxation for members of the urban trade guilds.