Bell' Arthemisia mia

Gasparo Pratoneri's Bell' Arthemisia mia is a secular Italian madrigal for SAATB voices. The text describes the singer's plea to the beautiful Arthemisia and her companions, whose sweet singing brightens the countryside. He begs them to temper their affections, as even a single breath from them would sweeten his tears and sighs. The composer crafts this plea with the rich texture of five voices, creating a poignant dialogue between the lover's suffering and the longed-for solace of song. It is ideal for a choir seeking to explore the expressive possibilities of the Renaissance madrigal tradition.