Dell'alato destrier

Jacquet de Berchem's Dell'alato destrier is a secular madrigal for SATB choir, sung in Italian. The text, taken from Ariosto's Orlando Furioso, describes Astolfo's descent from his winged steed. He leaves the horse tied to a bush and enters a cave, intent on retrieving something from his horn. A dark, foul smoke, heavier than pitch and sulphur, assails his senses, yet he presses on, determined not to be deterred. The music would likely reflect the narrative's drama and imagery, typical of the Italian madrigal tradition, offering a vivid musical interpretation of the epic poem.