Alma svegliate hormai

This lively SATB setting of an Italian text by Giovanni Brocco captures the spirit of the secular frottole genre. The music immediately establishes a sense of urgency, urging the soul to awaken from its slumber. The composer employs imitative entrances and a clear, syllabic declamation of the words to highlight the text’s message. The lyrics reflect on the fleeting nature of time and earthly pleasures, contrasting them with the enduring rewards of virtue. Brocco’s setting emphasizes this philosophical theme with a compelling and direct musical approach, making it an engaging choice for choirs seeking to explore the rich repertoire of Renaissance secular vocal music.