Come potro

A skilled choir of five voices (two sopranos, two tenors, and a bass) can explore the emotional turmoil of unrequited love in this Italian madrigal by Leonardus Barré. The text contrasts initial sweetness and hope with sudden despair and betrayal, a common theme in the secular part-music of the Renaissance. The composer vividly portrays the lover’s dashed expectations, moving from joy to sorrow and questioning the very nature of love. This piece offers directors an opportunity to highlight textual expression and stylistic nuance within the context of a richly textured vocal work.