Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Publication Date

:

1581

Average_duration

:

2:21

'O occhi manza mia' is a madrigal composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and is catalogued as S. x/103. It is a secular vocal composition that was likely intended for performance in a courtly or aristocratic setting. The madrigal is in four movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement is marked by a lively and rhythmic melody, with the vocal parts weaving in and out of each other in a complex and intricate pattern. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with a more homophonic texture and a focus on the beauty of the vocal harmonies. The third movement is marked by a more playful and whimsical character, with the vocal parts imitating each other in a lively and energetic manner. The final movement is a return to the more contemplative and introspective mood of the second movement, with a focus on the beauty of the vocal harmonies and the expressive power of the text. The text of the madrigal is in Italian and is a love poem that speaks of the beauty and allure of the beloved's eyes. The text is full of poetic imagery and metaphors, and Lassus's music captures the emotional depth and complexity of the text with its rich and expressive harmonies and intricate vocal textures. Overall, 'O occhi manza mia' is a masterful example of the late Renaissance madrigal, showcasing Lassus's skill as a composer and his ability to create complex and expressive vocal music. Its premiere date is unknown, but it remains a beloved and frequently performed work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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