Een Venus Scoon

This secular Dutch madrigal by Jacobus Clemens non Papa is a poignant expression of unrequited love, suitable for a concert programme of Renaissance part-music. The SATB setting brings to life the text's lament, describing how the singer's heart is broken by the beloved Venus, whose clear gaze leads him into heavy suffering. He feels his eyes have deceived him, bringing him to a state of singular, painful despair. Despite his suffering, he continues to yearn for her, though he fears she will bring him shame and disgrace. The intricate vocal lines of this piece would have been appreciated by both singers and listeners in the 16th century.