Hor che vezzosa, e bella

When the new season unfolds its beauty, heralded by springtime flowers and gentle breezes, this madrigal celebrates the delights of love. The text evokes a pastoral scene, where 'little Loves' playfully chase each other amongst the grass and blossoms, while 'woodland Muses' sing praises of love from the shade. Giovanni Vincenzo Macedonio sets this evocative Italian poetry for SSATB voices. It is a fine example of secular Renaissance part-music, rich with the imagery and sentiment of the era, perfect for a choir seeking to explore the vibrant expressive world of the Italian madrigal.