Candide perle
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
3 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Candide perle by Antonio Bicci — Lyrics
About Candide perle
Antonio Bicci's Candide perle is a secular Italian madrigal for SSATTB voices. This genre, popular in the Renaissance, is characterized by its intricate polyphony and expressive setting of poetry. Bicci's work draws on this tradition, offering a sophisticated musical exploration of the text. The lyrics poetically express a lover's plea, questioning why the object of their affection, described as 'candide perle' (white pearls) and 'labbra ridenti' (smiling lips), does not reciprocate their ardent sighs. The speaker laments that their soul is lost among these feelings, yearning for a kiss. The composer uses the rich texture of the SSATTB voicing to convey the depth of these emotions, creating a poignant and engaging musical experience.