Chi non sà ch'io morro

A composer of the late Renaissance, Simone Molinaro wrote this canzonetta for three voices (ATB). The text speaks of a lover's deep distress at being separated from their beloved, proclaiming them to be the 'soul, heart, and life of my life'. The writer's heart 'knows and proves' their anguish, fearing they will die if they cannot soon return to their love. Such an expressive text, full of yearning and devotion, makes this an ideal choice for a madrigal or early music consort, perhaps to open a concert programme, or for a chamber choir seeking a short, heartfelt Italian selection.