Ho inteso dir da molti che lo sanno

This vibrant secular madrigal for six voices (SSATBB) comes from the Italian Renaissance. Giovanni Ferretti sets a text that contemplates the legend of the swan singing its own death song. The lyrics express a certain envy for the swan, seeing its final moments as a fortunate release from life. The composer uses the six-part texture to create a rich and detailed musical setting, exploring the expressive possibilities of word painting to enhance the poignancy of the text. It is a fine example of the sophisticated part-music composed for domestic and courtly entertainment during the period.