Composer

:

Jacopo Peri

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

10:09

Jacopo Peri's 'Lamento Di Iole' is a vocal work that was composed in the early 17th century. It was premiered in Florence, Italy, in 1600, as part of the first-ever opera, 'Euridice'. The work is a solo lament, sung by the character Iole, who is mourning the loss of her husband, Eurydice. The 'Lamento Di Iole' is a single movement work, with a duration of approximately six minutes. It is written for a solo soprano voice, accompanied by a basso continuo, which consists of a harpsichord and a cello. The work is characterized by its expressive melody, which is supported by a simple and understated accompaniment. The text of the 'Lamento Di Iole' is in Italian, and it is a poetic expression of grief and sorrow. The opening lines of the work set the tone for the entire piece: "Lasciatemi morire / E chi volete voi che mi conforte / In così dura sorte / In così gran martire?" (Let me die / And who do you think can comfort me / In such a hard fate / In such great torment?) The melody of the 'Lamento Di Iole' is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which serve to heighten the emotional intensity of the work. The vocal line is highly expressive, with frequent use of melismatic passages and ornamentation. The accompaniment is simple and understated, providing a supportive framework for the vocal line. Overall, the 'Lamento Di Iole' is a powerful and emotionally charged work, which showcases Peri's skill as a composer of vocal music. Its expressive melody and understated accompaniment make it a timeless example of the early Baroque style.

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