Contre raison

Claudin de Sermisy was a leading composer of French chansons in the first half of the 16th century, a vibrant period for secular vocal music. This four-part setting, Contre raison, exemplifies the genre with its clear melodic lines and homophonic texture, making it accessible for choirs. The text, sung in French, expresses a lover's bewildered complaint against his beloved. He questions why she has suddenly disinherited him from her love without cause, asking if causing him pain will bring her any praise. The chanson captures a moment of charming, albeit sorrowful, reflection, typical of the Renaissance secular tradition.