Palestrina / Da Milano / Gastoldi / Banchieri Vita De La Mia Vita-Ricercari Dances Madrigals CD

A beautiful selection of Ricercares, Fantasias, Gagliardes and Madrigals from Renaissance Italy, played by a lute consort of 4 lutes. In Italian renaissance vocal and instrumental music were not strongly divided: the popular vocal madrigals of the day were often played by instrumental ensembles, in rich polyphonic writing of high complexity. Presented are works by well-known composers (Palestrina, Da Milano) and some by more obscure composers, a lively alteration of bright and festive dances and melancholic, bitter sweet songs on subjects of Love, Life and Death. Beautifully played by the Quartetto di Liuti da Milano, a joy to listen to! An extensive booklet text in English and Italian, on the historical background of the music, the instruments used and biographies of the artists.

1. Pavana, 'La Cornetta' 2. La Lucchesina 3. Da Pacem Domine 4. Il Ballerino 5. Vita de la Mia Vita 6. Fantasia No. 33 7. La Fiorentina 8. Occhi Dolci E Soavi 9. Ricercare 10. Ballo Francese 11. Fantasia No. 34, 'La Compagna' 12. Gagliarda, 'La Traditora' 13. Canone for Two Lutes 14. Il Bianco E Dolce Cigno 15. La Spagna for Two Lutes 16. Ahi Quest'occhi Miei 17. Vestiva I Colli (Palestrina) 18. Lo Sdegnato 19. Felice Chi VI Mira 20. Uno Spirto Celeste 21. Il Bianco Fiore