Convien ch'ovunque sia

This setting by Cipriano de Rore of an Italian sonnet offers a challenge for a confident SATTB choir. The text explores the innate qualities of a noble heart, which, by its very nature, must always be courteous. In contrast, it describes the base-born heart, whose inclination towards evil is similarly ingrained. Rore’s skill in depicting contrasting ideas through music is well-known, and this secular madrigal offers opportunities for expressive vocal colour and dynamic shaping. It would be an excellent choice for a concert programme, allowing singers to explore the rich harmonic language characteristic of the High Renaissance.