Carlo Gesualdo (1566-1613)

The sacred works of Carlo Gesualdo [1566-1613] retain characteristics of his madrigalian compositions but in a diluted form. His approach to O vos omnes, a responsorial intended to be sung during Holy Week, with a text from the Book of Lamentations, is one that maintains a free style and outlines his understanding and application of chromatic harmony. This piece contains rapid stylistic shifts and moments that mirror the contemplation and understanding of this sorrowful text.

Sam Ritter

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