Languische al fin for Woodwind Quintet (Gesualdo arr. Harnsberger)

Carlo Gesualdo (1566 – 1613) composed “Languisce al fin” as part of his fifth book of madrigals in 1611. Gesualdo, who was the prince of Venosa, Italy, is best known for his intensely chromatic vocal pieces. Despite being composed at the end of the Renaissance, his works sound very modern even to today’s listeners. Originally scored for five voices (SAATB), this highly expressive work has been expertly arranged for woodwind quintet by L. C. Harnsberger. Gesualdo wrote extremely expressive sacred and secular vocal music, often using emotional texts that focused on love, pain, and mortality. The text of “Languisce al fin” is no exception. This arrangement for woodwind quintet skillfully incorporates expressive phrasing and dynamics, enhancing the emotional depth of the music and making it a perfect addition to any performance.