Guts Muths woln wir sein

Let's be brave and bold, the text declares, defying any who would oppose us. It paints a picture of a contented, jovial brotherhood, perhaps gathered in a tavern, urging each other to drink up and make merry, with the suggestion that a wealthy farmer would be fortunate to support them. Thomas Mancinus sets this secular German text for five voices (SATTB), a rich ensemble for this genre of Renaissance part-music. The composer captures the convivial spirit of the words, creating a short, spirited work that would be a lively addition to any programme of madrigals.