This edition was prepared by Allen Garvin — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Fortuna alata il pié calva la testa
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
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Fortuna alata il pié calva la testa by Alessandro Striggio — Lyrics
Fortuna alata il pié calva la testa,
e con un crin davanti si dipinge,
E un vecchio zoppo che con quei si resta,
Ch'ella si lasci a dietro anco si finge,
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About Fortuna alata il pié calva la testa
Alessandro Striggio's Fortuna alata il pié calva la testa is a striking example of secular Italian madrigal writing for a large SATTTB choir. The music vividly portrays the allegorical figure of Fortune, who is depicted with winged feet and a bald head, only a forelock of hair to grasp. The text describes how those who fail to seize Fortune when she presents herself are left behind, with only regret remaining. Striggio's setting uses the substantial forces available to him to create a rich and dramatic soundscape, reflecting the fleeting nature of opportunity and the consequences of inaction. The interplay between the many voice parts generates a powerful musical narrative, making this a compelling choice for choirs seeking expressive Renaissance polyphony.
