A che mi fu egli

This is a solo aria by Stefano Landi, suitable for a countertenor voice. The Italian text expresses a plea to Love, lamenting the pain and torment inflicted by its fires. The singer questions why Love denies sweet repose and exposes the heart to the dazzling, yet ultimately harmful, light of amorous glances. The repetitive refrain, 'Non vuo d'amor languire, deh, lasciami dormire' (I do not wish to languish from love, alas, let me sleep), underscores a desire to escape the suffering of unrequited or painful affection. This aria would be a compelling addition to a program of Italian secular music from the Baroque era.