Ben mi credea

Imagine a Renaissance court, a gathering of friends, or a moment of private contemplation. In such settings, this secular Italian madrigal by Girolamo Scotto would have been performed. Composed for three male voices (TTB), the piece explores a text lamenting unrequited love and the harsh rejection from a beloved. The composer captures the pain and frustration of the lover who finds their faithful service met not with mercy but with increased cruelty. It's a poignant reflection on the suffering that can arise from serving an unyielding and proud mistress, leading to a final, sorrowful farewell.