Composer

:

Carlo Gesualdo

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Compose Date

:

1611

Average_duration

:

4:13

'Mercè grido piangendo, W. 5/49' is a madrigal composed by Carlo Gesualdo, an Italian nobleman and composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and is part of Gesualdo's sixth book of madrigals, published in 1611. The premiere of 'Mercè grido piangendo' is unknown, but it was likely performed in the courts of Naples, where Gesualdo lived. The piece is written for five voices, with two sopranos, alto, tenor, and bass. The madrigal is divided into two sections, with the first section being in a minor key and the second section in a major key. The first section is characterized by its dissonant harmonies and chromaticism, which were hallmarks of Gesualdo's style. The text of the first section describes the speaker's lamentations and cries for mercy, with the music reflecting the emotional intensity of the text. The second section of the madrigal is more hopeful in tone, with the music shifting to a major key and the harmonies becoming more consonant. The text of the second section describes the speaker's hope for redemption and salvation, with the music reflecting this sense of optimism. Overall, 'Mercè grido piangendo' is a prime example of Gesualdo's unique style, which was characterized by its use of chromaticism, dissonance, and intense emotional expression. The piece remains a popular work in the madrigal repertoire and is often performed by vocal ensembles today.

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