Donna e'l core

Giovanni Artusi's Donna e'l core is a delightful example of the Italian canzonetta, a secular genre popular in the late Renaissance. Scored for three sopranos (SSST), the piece sets a text that expresses a lover's plea to his beloved. He declares that she inflames his soul and heart at all times, and questions why she withholds her aid if she is indeed his life. Artusi's setting likely reflects the light and charming character typical of the canzonetta, with careful attention to the expressive qualities of the Italian words. This madrigal would make an engaging addition to a concert programme, showcasing the clear, bright sound of the women's voices.