The exact nationality of Heinrich Isaacs is disputed. He was born in Brabant but he is also consideredto be from East Flanders, and, to complicate matters further, most of his works and employment occurred in Italy (excepting Austria). He was in service to Lorenzo de'Medici from 1484 until 1492 as organist, choirmaster and teacher to his children. He visited Rome in 1489 and came in service to the Emperor Maximilian in 1497 as the court composer of Innsbruck. He would often travel between Italy and Austria visiting Florence as well as the Farenese court. By 1514 he had petitioned the Emperor for permamnent release so that he might return to Florence; this release was granted. He remained in Florence for the rest of his life. Considered the first German master of counterpoint, Isaac utilized this skill for compositions in every known genre including sacred and secular music. The forms included German, French, Italian and Latin songs, carnival songs, fifty eight instrumental works and at least twenty pieces of "house music." "Choralis Constantinus" contained fifty eight offices for sacred services including the entire church year. Isaac also composed twenty three masses and forty nine motets as well as a number of psalms, introits and other works. ~ Keith Johnson, Rovi