This edition was prepared by Willem Verkaik — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Come pianta, ch'a poco a poco manca
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
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Come pianta, ch'a poco a poco manca by Orlando di Lasso — Lyrics
Come pianta, ch'a poco a poco manca,
Del nutriment', ond'era verde e viva,
Quanto florida fresca alto saliva,
Tanto china giu il capo, e’l crine imbianca:
Così il vigor mancando, ond'era franca
Mia vita, e lieta nel suo april fioriva,
Questa mia secca spoglia e d'humor priva
Sento pian pian chinarsi, e grave e stanca.
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About Come pianta, ch'a poco a poco manca
This SATB madrigal by Orlando di Lasso sets a Petrarchan sonnet in Italian. The text speaks of life fading away like a plant starved of nourishment. It describes the body growing weak and weary, reflecting on the brevity of life and the soul's need to ascend. The composer’s setting, with its poignant imagery and clear harmonic language, captures the melancholy resignation of the poem, making it suitable for a reflective moment. Its secular nature and sophisticated vocal writing offer a rewarding challenge for a chamber choir seeking expressive Renaissance part-music.
