Composer

:

Johannes Hieronymus Kapsberger

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

2:53

Johannes Hieronymus Kapsberger was a German-Italian composer and lutenist of the early Baroque period. He was born in Venice in 1580 and died in Rome in 1651. Kapsberger was known for his virtuosic lute playing and his innovative compositions for the instrument. He also composed vocal music, including the villanelle "Felici gl'animi," which is part of his "Libro quarto di villanelle" (Fourth Book of Villanelles). The "Libro quarto di villanelle" was published in Rome in 1623 and contains 20 villanelles for three voices and continuo. The villanelle was a popular form of Italian secular song in the 16th and 17th centuries, characterized by its simple melody and repetitive text. Kapsberger's villanelles are notable for their sophisticated harmonies and intricate counterpoint. "Felici gl'animi" is the first villanelle in the collection and is scored for two sopranos and basso continuo. The text, by an unknown author, celebrates the joys of love and the beauty of nature. The music is in three movements, with a lively opening section followed by a slower, more contemplative middle section, and a return to the lively tempo for the final section. The first movement begins with a lively instrumental introduction, featuring a virtuosic lute part. The two sopranos then enter with the text "Felici gl'animi che si fanno amando" (Happy are the souls that love each other). The music is characterized by its lively rhythms and intricate vocal lines, which weave in and out of each other. The second movement is more introspective, with the sopranos singing "O dolcezza infinita d'amoroso contento" (Oh infinite sweetness of loving contentment). The music is slower and more contemplative, with long, flowing vocal lines and rich harmonies. The final movement returns to the lively tempo of the first, with the sopranos singing "Ecco che il sol dal monte esce" (Behold, the sun rises from the mountain). The music is characterized by its energetic rhythms and intricate vocal lines, which build to a joyful conclusion. Overall, "Felici gl'animi" is a beautiful example of Kapsberger's skill as a composer of vocal music. The intricate counterpoint and sophisticated harmonies make it a challenging piece for performers, but also a rewarding one for those who take the time to master it.

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