Composer

:

Luca Marenzio

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Publication Date

:

1584

Average_duration

:

3:12

Luca Marenzio's 'E s'io mi doglio, Amor' is a madrigal from his 'Il secondo libro de madrigali a 6 voci' (The Second Book of Madrigals for 6 Voices), which was published in 1591. The madrigal is in six parts and is written for two sopranos, two altos, and two basses. The piece is characterized by its expressive and emotional text, which speaks of the pain of love. The music is reflective of the text, with dissonant harmonies and chromaticism used to convey the sense of longing and heartache. The piece is also notable for its use of word painting, with the music mirroring the meaning of the text. For example, the word "pianto" (weeping) is set to a descending melody, while the word "sospir" (sigh) is set to a rising and falling melody. The madrigal is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section is slow and mournful, with the voices singing in homophony. The second section is faster and more rhythmic, with the voices imitating each other in a lively and playful manner. The final section returns to the slow and mournful character of the opening, with the voices singing in close harmony. The premiere of 'Il secondo libro de madrigali a 6 voci' is not known, but it was likely performed in the courts and salons of Italy. The book was dedicated to Cardinal Pietro Aldobrandini, a patron of the arts who was known for his support of composers such as Marenzio. Overall, 'E s'io mi doglio, Amor' is a beautiful and expressive example of Marenzio's skill as a composer of madrigals. Its emotional depth and musical sophistication make it a standout piece in the repertoire of Renaissance vocal music.

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