Ce moys de may

Guillaume Dufay’s Ce moys de may is a secular French chanson from the early Renaissance. The music opens with a bright, joyful mood, immediately establishing the spirit of the text. The composer masterfully weaves the three voice parts together, creating a rich texture that is both intricate and accessible. The text itself, sung in French, celebrates the month of May as a time for happiness and merriment, urging listeners to cast aside melancholy and embrace delight. It speaks of dancing, singing, and cherishing a lovely mistress, all in defiance of envious foes. This piece, scored for SAT or STT voices, offers a delightful glimpse into the secular musical life of the 15th century.