Je ne me puis tenir d'aimer

A highlight of the French secular chanson repertoire, Josquin des Prez’s Je ne me puis tenir d’aimer is a richly textured work for SATTB choir. It offers a poignant exploration of unrequited love. The text expresses the singer's inability to cease loving someone who does not return his affection. He laments the futility of his efforts and pleads with his sovereign lady to accept his devotion, lest he perish. This masterful composition would lend itself perfectly to a concert program celebrating Renaissance polyphony, or indeed any occasion calling for expressive, passionate vocal music. Its intricate vocal lines and emotional depth make it a rewarding challenge for discerning choirs.