Composer

:

Carlo Gesualdo

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Compose Date

:

1611

Average_duration

:

2:58

"Io parto, e non più dissi" is a madrigal composed by Carlo Gesualdo, an Italian nobleman and composer of the late Renaissance. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and is part of his sixth book of madrigals, published in 1611. The madrigal is in five movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is marked "Lento" and is a mournful lament, with the text expressing the composer's sadness at leaving his beloved. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and playful section, with the text describing the joys of love. The third movement, marked "Adagio," is a slow and contemplative section, with the text expressing the composer's regret at leaving his beloved. The fourth movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic section, with the text describing the joys of love once again. The final movement, marked "Lento," returns to the mournful mood of the opening, with the text expressing the composer's sorrow at the end of the affair. The piece is notable for its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which were highly unusual for the time. Gesualdo was known for his experimental approach to harmony and his use of unconventional chord progressions, which often resulted in strikingly dissonant and expressive music. "Io parto, e non più dissi" is a prime example of this approach, with its complex harmonies and unexpected shifts in tonality. The madrigal was premiered in the late 16th century, likely in the court of Gesualdo's patron, the Duke of Venosa. It was later published in Gesualdo's sixth book of madrigals, which was dedicated to the Duke and published posthumously in 1611. The piece remains a popular and influential work in the madrigal repertoire, and is often performed and studied by musicians and scholars today.

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