This edition was prepared by Renato Calcaterra — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
I begl'occhi
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
Preview
0
0
Subscribed as
Want Sunday picks sent to another address too?
Free weekly email
Your choir should not be left out in what's trending
Sunday mass selections, psalms, and trending songs in your area — straight to your inbox.
I begl'occhi by Philippe de Monte — Lyrics
I begl’occhi und’io fui percosso in guisa
Che medesmi potrian saldar la piaga
E non gia virtu d’herbe o d’arte maga
O di pietra del mar nostro divisa
M’hanno la via si d’altro amor precisa
Ch’un sol dolce pensier l’anima appaga
E se la lingua di seguirla e vaga
Read full lyrics
About I begl'occhi
Philippe de Monte’s madrigal I begl’occhi sets a Petrarchan sonnet, with the text expressing the power of the beloved’s eyes, both to wound and to heal. The poet finds solace not in herbal remedies or magic, but in a single sweet thought inspired by these eyes. They are the source of his patron’s victories and are constantly alight in his heart, inspiring him to praise them endlessly. This secular Italian setting for SSAATB voices showcases de Monte’s mastery of polyphony and text setting. His rich harmonic language and intricate interplay between the vocal lines perfectly capture the passion and devotion described in the poem, making it a compelling choice for a cappella ensembles.
