Ardo, ardo si

Enrico Radesca's Ardo, ardo si is a secular Italian madrigal for two voices, soprano and bass. The text speaks of passionate love, but also of the singer's determination to keep his desires pure. He wishes his honourable longing not to be wronged by fate, and despite a cruel destiny, he maintains pride in his chaste thoughts and ever-growing ardour. This contrast between passionate feeling and moral restraint makes for a compelling expressive challenge for singers, ideal for a small ensemble seeking to explore the rich tradition of Renaissance part-music.