This edition was prepared by Pothárn Imre — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Donec gratus eram tibi
Staff Notation • Secular, Motets
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Donec gratus eram tibi by Cipriano de Rore — Lyrics
'Donec gratus eram tibi
nec quisquam potior brachia candidae
cervici iuvenis dabat,
Persarum vigui rege beatior.'
'Donec non alia magis
arsisti neque erat Lydia post Chloen,
multi Lydia nominis,
Romana vigui clarior Ilia.'
'Me nunc Thressa Chloe regit,
dulces docta modos et citharae sciens,
pro qua non metuam mori,
si parcent animae fata superstiti.'
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About Donec gratus eram tibi
This setting of Petrarchan verses by Cipriano de Rore is a poignant exploration of love's changing fortunes. Initially sung by a single tenor voice, it recounts a time when the speaker was more cherished than any other, living more happily than the King of Persia. The text then shifts to a new infatuation, with Lydia becoming less important than Chloe. The speaker laments being ruled by Chloe, who is skilled in music, and wishes to die for her. However, he then expresses a desire to return to Lydia, even if she is less beautiful and more tempestuous than the new love, preferring to live and die with her. The rich eight-part texture (SSAT.ATTB) allows for a dramatic unfolding of these contrasting emotions, making it a compelling choice for a discerning choir.
