Ahi se credete' amanti

Benedetto Ferrari's Ahi se credete amanti is a secular Italian madrigal for solo voice. The music opens with a stark, declamatory gesture, setting the stage for a text that forcefully debunks romantic notions of love. The words suggest that women are not satisfied by sighs and tears, but are instead motivated by material gain – gold and silver. Ferrari's setting captures this directness, the vocal line often charting a bold, syllabic course. The text argues that true affection is scorned by women, who are only interested in wealth, painting a cynical picture of romantic relationships. This solo madrigal offers a dramatic and forthright exploration of its chosen theme.