Lassus – Bonjour mon coeur (c.1564)

Orlando di Lasso’s “Bonjour mon cœur” stands as a charming testament to the French chanson tradition of the Renaissance. Composed in the late 16th century, Lasso’s work flourished amidst the vibrant polyphonic creations of his contemporaries, such as Clément Janequin and Claudin de Sermisy. “Bonjour mon cœur” is a fine example of Lasso’s ability to infuse the French chanson with grace and sophisticated vocal textures.

The chanson opens with the gentle greeting “Bonjour mon cœur” (Good day, my heart), setting a light and amorous tone. In comparison to other chansons of the time, like Janequin’s vividly descriptive “La Guerre” and Sermisy’s elegant “Tant que vivray,” Lasso’s composition is characterized by its lyricism and refined counterpoint.