Composer

:

Francesco Landini

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Ballata

Compose Date

:

ca. 1350 - 1397

Average_duration

:

2:48

"Po che partir convienmi" is a ballata composed by Francesco Landini, a prominent Italian composer of the 14th century. The ballata was likely composed in the late 1350s or early 1360s, during Landini's tenure as organist at the church of San Lorenzo in Florence. The ballata is written for three voices, with the melody carried by the top voice and the lower voices providing harmonic support. The text of the ballata is in Italian and tells the story of a lover who must leave his beloved behind and travel to a distant land. The lover expresses his sadness at having to leave, but also his determination to return to his beloved as soon as possible. The ballata is structured in the typical form of the time, with a repeated refrain (or "ritornello") alternating with verses. The verses are set to a different melody each time, but the refrain remains the same. This creates a sense of unity and coherence throughout the piece, while also allowing for variation and development. The first movement of the ballata features the opening refrain, which sets the melancholy tone of the piece. The melody is simple and plaintive, with a descending line that emphasizes the lover's sadness at having to leave. The second movement introduces the first verse, which is set to a more lively and upbeat melody. This contrast between the melancholy refrain and the more hopeful verses creates a sense of tension and release. The third movement returns to the refrain, but with a slight variation in the melody that adds a sense of urgency and longing. The fourth movement introduces the second verse, which is set to a more complex and ornate melody. This melody features intricate melismatic passages that showcase Landini's skill as a composer. The fifth movement returns to the refrain once again, but with a more elaborate and ornamented version of the melody. This variation adds a sense of richness and depth to the piece, while also emphasizing the lover's intense emotions. The final movement introduces the third and final verse, which is set to a more subdued and introspective melody. This verse reflects the lover's acceptance of his situation and his determination to return to his beloved as soon as possible. Overall, "Po che partir convienmi" is a beautiful and poignant example of Landini's artistry as a composer. The piece showcases his skill in creating complex and expressive melodies, as well as his ability to structure a piece in a way that creates a sense of unity and coherence.

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