Luca Marenzio (1553-1599)
An important Italian madrigalist. His writing demonstrates the work
of a progressive composer who made many innovations
in chordal relationships and expressive chromaticism. He was
considered one of the three great virtuoso Madrigalists
of the late 16th century. The other two being Gesualdo
and Monteverdi.
Marenzio was more somber and reserved.
Gesualdo was more emotional and passionate,
while Monteverdi was somewhere between the
two.
(see The Italian Madrigal)