Hard by a Fountain

Few musical forms capture the intimacy of the Renaissance quite like the madrigal — and Hard by a Fountain brings that centuries-old art into vivid new life. Originally conceived for four voices, this arrangement for flute, oboe, clarinet, and bass clarinet preserves every nuance of the original’s interweaving lines, translating the warmth of human voices into the distinctive colors of the woodwind family.

The piece unfolds with the unhurried grace of a pastoral scene — voices (now instruments) entering in gentle imitation, lines crossing and converging with the natural ease of conversation. The bass clarinet grounds the texture with quiet authority, while the flute traces the upper voice with clarity and poise. Between them, the oboe and clarinet fill the harmonic space with a richness that feels both ancient and immediate.

Whether performed in a recital hall, a chamber series, or an educational setting, Hard by a Fountain offers players and audiences alike a rare opportunity: to experience the Renaissance not as a museum piece, but as living, breathing music.

Arranged by Michael Vondracek.