Colli superbi, ov'alberga speranza

Sung in Italian, this secular madrigal for SSATB voices sets a Petrarchan sonnet reflecting on the fleeting nature of hope. The poet addresses proud hills where hope is said to reside, lamenting that despite his expectation, he sees only cruel custom. He questions if his bright day will ever dawn after such a long night, seeing no sign of his desires being fulfilled. Soriano’s setting would suit a concert programme of Renaissance part-music, perhaps in a more reflective moment. The intricate vocal lines are typical of the genre, demanding sensitive tuning and blend from the singers.