Es tan violento el estrago

This secular villancico by Francisco Valls is for four-part female voices (SSSA). It comes from the Spanish Golden Age, a period rich in polyphonic secular song. The text speaks of the overwhelming power of a lover's gaze, describing its intense and almost sinful effect, and begging the beloved to temper their coldness. The intricate vocal writing, typical of the era, would suit a concert setting or a special occasion where skilled young singers could explore its expressive harmonies and passionate text.