Madrigal by Sally Beamish

Sally Beamish’s (1956-) hauntingly beautiful ‘Madrigal’ (1999) based on Gesualdo’s (1566-1613) innovative madrigal, ‘Lo Pur Respiro’.
‘Madrigal’ progresses through a series of variations presenting quickly alternating moods, with stark rhythmic and dynamic contrasts. The literal statement of Gesualdo’s madrigal is revealed at the end, creating an unexpected and beautiful moment of release. This choice creates a provisional theme in the first variation, restated before ‘Lo Pur Respiro’ is revealed.
The words of Gesualdo’s ‘Lo Pur Respiro’ includes poignant recollections of suffering and loss:
‘Even in agony, I still breathe, and you still live, O pitiless heart. Ah, since there is no more hope of again seeing our beloved, Death, give us aid; take this life. Torture me not, but with a single stroke end my life and woe.’
Played on a Michael Gee Guitar. Edited by Iain Coleman.
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