Cent mille fois

This four-part French chanson, Cent mille fois, by Etienne Du Tertre, opens with an intimate and contrapuntal texture where the voices weave together. The vocal writing is agile, reflecting the secular character of the piece. The text speaks of intimate longing and the desire for a lover's company, while also asserting the chastity of their bond, even if discovered together. The composer skilfully uses the independence of the ATTB voices to explore the subtle nuances of the text, creating a sophisticated yet passionate musical expression typical of the chansons of the era. This chanson offers a delightful challenge and reward for an a cappella ensemble.