En un lieu où

Jean de Castro’s En un lieu où is a secular French chanson for two sopranos and tenor. The text paints a vivid scene, suggesting the composer’s own words: “In a place where one can barely see, I will never go without a light.” The song explores the idea of navigating darkness and the need for illumination, even in familiar surroundings. The composer emphasizes this theme by stating, “For all around, both before and behind, one often has the gout, a candle will not be too dear for me.” This intimate setting and direct expression make En un lieu où a compelling choice for small vocal ensembles seeking to explore Renaissance part-music with a clear, relatable narrative.