Con la candida man tu cogli

This expressive SSATB madrigal by Marco da Gagliano sets a poignant text by Alessandro Striggio the Younger. The lyrics paint a vivid scene of a nymph gathering flowers with her fair hand, her beautiful eyes captivating hearts. However, the poet laments her cruelty in placing the flowers in her bosom while tying hearts within her hair, a situation that overwhelms him. He pleads with her to change her ways, to adorn her hair with flowers and her heart with love. The intricate vocal writing reflects the emotional intensity of the text, making this a compelling choice for a discerning choir seeking to explore the rich tradition of Italian secular part-music.