Composer

:

Carlo Gesualdo

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1594

Average_duration

:

3:24

'Hai rotto e sciolto e spento' is a madrigal composed by Carlo Gesualdo, an Italian composer and nobleman of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, around 1590, and is part of his sixth book of madrigals. The premiere of the piece is not known, but it was likely performed in the court of Gesualdo's patron, the Duke of Venosa. The madrigal is written for five voices, and is characterized by Gesualdo's use of chromaticism and dissonance. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement begins with a mournful and dissonant chord progression, which sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The voices enter one by one, each adding to the complex harmonies and dissonances. The text of the first movement speaks of a broken heart, and the music reflects the pain and anguish of the speaker. The second movement is more lively and rhythmic, with a faster tempo and a more upbeat melody. The text speaks of the speaker's desire to forget their pain and move on, and the music reflects this with its more optimistic tone. The final movement returns to the mournful and dissonant harmonies of the first, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a complex and haunting melody. The text speaks of the speaker's despair and hopelessness, and the music reflects this with its dark and brooding character. Overall, 'Hai rotto e sciolto e spento' is a powerful and emotional piece of music, showcasing Gesualdo's unique style and his ability to convey complex emotions through his music.

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