Amoroso

Date:
14th century (Trecento period, c. 1350)

Description:
Amoroso is a short Italian dance from the 14th century, likely a ballata or estampie style instrumental piece. It exemplifies the lively and graceful character of secular dance music in the Italian Trecento, with a flowing melodic line and rhythmic vitality.

Discussion:
The piece appears in the London Manuscript Add. 29987, one of the primary sources of medieval Italian instrumental music. Like other works from this manuscript, Amoroso is monophonic and was likely played on instruments such as the vielle, recorder, or lute, possibly with improvised accompaniment. While the composer is unknown, the music reflects the courtly elegance of the time and is suitable for both dance and listening contexts. Its title, “Amoroso” (loving, affectionate), suggests a gentle, perhaps flirtatious character.

Composer:
Anonymous (Italian Trecento)

Arranged by:
Modern editions exist for solo melody instruments, recorders, small consorts, and early music ensembles. Some arrangements also include added drone or improvised percussion.

Sheet Music:
Available in early music collections and from sources like Medieval Music in Practice, IMSLP, and the Early Music Muse blog.
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf or a musescore file. Note: The custom in Ildhafn has halved the length of the last three notes compared with what is written.

Parts:
Monophonic (originally); often adapted for duet, trio, or ensemble settings.

Type:
Secular Instrumental Dance / Ballata or Estampie

Language:
Instrumental (no lyrics)

Ranges:
Depends on the arrangement; the original melody typically fits comfortably within:

• C4 – D5 (soprano/alto range for recorders, flutes, etc.)

Advice for beginners:
This is a great introduction to medieval dance music. Focus on keeping a steady pulse and clear articulation, especially in instrumental versions. Try ornamenting the repeated sections slightly to evoke medieval performance practice. If played in ensemble, agree on a tempo and consider light percussion to enhance the rhythmic feel.

Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference. All parts, descant, tenor, bass

• Dance