Joaquin Rodrigo is a Spanish composer born at the beginning of the 20th century in Valencia, Spain. Rodrigo composed in a variety of styles, but is perhaps best known for his work as a pioneer of guitar concerto repertoire, despite never mastering the instrument himself. At the age of three, the composer nearly lost his sight due to diphtheria, and for the rest of his life wrote his compositions in Braille to be transcribed for use. The four songs are set to poetry by sixteenth century poet Juan Vasquez which examine various facets of love. Though Rodrigo is a 20th century composer, this cycle maintains a Baroque flavor throughout, in keeping with the Madrigal style.
Vos me matásteis, You killed me, niña en cabello, girl with the hair, vos me habéis muerto. You have made me die. Riberas de un río Banks of a river ví moza vírgen, I saw a maid virgen, Niña en cabello, Girl with hair, vos me matásteis, you killed me, Niña en cabello, Girl in hair, vos me habéis muerto. You have made me die.