Composer

:

Jacopo da Bologna

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Part Song

Average_duration

:

3:50

'Aquil' altera/Creatura gentil/Ucel de Dio' is a secular Italian madrigal composed by Jacopo da Bologna in the 14th century. The piece is believed to have been composed around the year 1350 and is considered one of the earliest examples of the Italian madrigal. The piece is written for three voices and is characterized by its lively and playful melody. The text of the madrigal is in Italian and tells the story of a gentle bird who sings sweetly in the forest. The bird is described as being so beautiful that it could only have been created by God. The madrigal is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by a different melody and rhythm. The first movement, 'Aquil' altera', is a lively and energetic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the madrigal. The second movement, 'Creatura gentil', is a slower and more contemplative piece that focuses on the beauty of the bird. The final movement, 'Ucel de Dio', is a joyful and celebratory piece that praises the bird as a creation of God. The piece is notable for its use of word painting, a technique in which the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, in the first movement, the music becomes more frenzied as the text describes the bird's energetic movements. In the second movement, the music becomes more peaceful and contemplative as the text describes the bird's beauty. Overall, 'Aquil' altera/Creatura gentil/Ucel de Dio' is a charming and lively example of early Italian madrigal music. Its playful melody and use of word painting make it a delightful piece to listen to and a testament to the skill of Jacopo da Bologna as a composer.

More....