Madonna io v'amo

Philippe Verdelot was a key figure in the development of the Italian madrigal. This secular part-song for five voices, STTTB, is a fine example of the genre. The Italian text expresses the singer's ardent love for his 'Madonna'. He declares that Love itself can swear to the burning passion within him, contrasting with her coolness. He holds back from speaking of his suffering not for his own sake, but to preserve her honour. Yet she is ever in his heart, the source of his high hopes and desires, and by her grace he lives, inflamed. He wishes to be understood without speaking, a sentiment Verdelot captures with expressive vocal writing.