Carlo Gesualdo: Moro, lasso for trombone sextet

About the Gesualdo Moro lasso for trombone sextet

The Gesualdo Moro lasso for trombone sextet arranged by Aron Simon adapts one of the most intense madrigals of the late Renaissance into a brass setting. Composed by Carlo Gesualdo, Moro, lasso, al mio duolo (“I die, alas, in my grief”) is famous for its daring chromaticism and emotional extremes. This arrangement preserves the original’s expressive power while adding the unique resonance of a trombone ensemble.

Instrumentation and scoring

This version is scored for 5 tenor trombones and 1 bass trombone. The tenor voices carry the interweaving counterpoint, while the bass trombone provides a dark, grounding sonority. In addition, the consistent brass timbre adds depth and weight to Gesualdo’s dramatic harmonic shifts.

Musical character and interpretation

The madrigal’s slow-moving, overlapping lines create a tapestry of tension and release. Gesualdo’s unexpected chord progressions intensify the mood of longing and despair. Moreover, the trombone’s sustained tone makes the chromatic dissonances even more striking, while the legato phrasing mirrors the vocal origins of the piece.

Technical and musical aspects

Performers must manage precise intonation, especially in close intervals. Breath control, dynamic shaping, and blend are critical to achieving a unified sound. Although rhythmically straightforward, the expressive demands are high, requiring careful attention to phrasing and colour.

Availability and audio preview

This Gesualdo Moro lasso for trombone sextet edition includes a full score and individual parts, engraved to professional standards. Available as a digital download or printed edition with priority shipping.

👉 Add this Renaissance madrigal to your trombone sextet repertoire today
👉 Learn more about Carlo Gesualdo on Wikipedia
👉 Browse more trombone ensemble arrangements here

🎧 Listen to the MIDI preview on SoundCloud: