A tout iamais

Claudin de Sermisy was a leading composer of French chansons in the first half of the sixteenth century. This secular four-part setting is a fine example of the genre, with its clear melody and homophonic texture. The text speaks of devotion and loyalty, with the singer pledging faithful service to their beloved. The flowing French lyrics are beautifully matched by the music, which moves with an elegant simplicity that was characteristic of the Parisian chanson. It is scored for SATB voices, offering a rich but balanced sonority.