Cor mio, deh, non languire

Alessandro Savioli's Cor mio, deh, non languire is a rich example of Italian secular madrigal writing for SATTB voices. The composer uses the five-part texture to explore the poignant text, which implores the heart not to languish, as the soul suffers with it. The lyrics speak of sending hot sighs of pity and desire, and a desperate wish to die to give life to the beloved. The composer’s setting mirrors the emotional intensity of the words, with moments of yearning and passionate declaration. This madrigal offers an expressive challenge for an accomplished choir, exploring both harmonic colour and vocal interplay.