A diminution study by Giovanni Bassano (c.1558-1617) based on the madrigal Nasce la pena mia by Alessandro Striggio. This is a “bastarda” diminution, a special type of composition that combines all lines of a composed multipart piece (in this case, a six-line madrigal) to form a single decorated solo line for study.

Diminutions are written-out ornamentations of popular melodies from the Renaissance and early Baroque. The original melody and text (if applicable) are provided above the diminution as a framework for phrasing and breathing. All diminutions and melody lines are transcribed directly from their original sources. Original barring and note values remain intact. A suggested tempo, or “tactus,” is provided, along with an appropriate subdivision according to typical Renaissance and early Baroque standards.

Level: High Intermediate/Advanced