Amor che deggio far

This anonymous Italian madrigal for SATB voices comes from a rich tradition of secular Renaissance part-music. The text speaks of a lover's despair and confusion, imploring Love itself for guidance. The singer feels deprived of light and comfort, and begs for his heart to be returned, stating that he is dying unjustly without it. The composer's setting captures the emotional turmoil of the words, with intricate vocal interplay characteristic of the madrigal style. It is a fine example of the expressive potential of Renaissance polyphony applied to secular subjects, offering both a musical and textual challenge for a choir.