Palestrina was dismissed from the papal chapel on July 30, 1555, by Pope Paul IV, who disapproved of married singers in the chapel.
Composer Biography
Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's appointment as "cantore pontificio" (papal singer) was officially made on January 13, 1555, by Pope Giulio III.
Critical Reception
The work was moderately successful, evidenced by numerous reprints published in Venice over fifty years (1555-1605).
Composition History
Palestrina's "Il Primo Libro di Madrigali a quatro voci" was his second published work, printed in Rome in 1555.
Composer Biography
Palestrina's famous "repentance" of his madrigals, mentioned in a later dedication, is described as more formal and opportunistic than sincere.
Compositional Technique
The madrigals in this collection, being an early work, continue the style of "Roman" musicians Arcadelt and Festa, who influenced Palestrina's artistic training.
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