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Figure 18

[ill. nr. 18 ]
Jean De Castro's preface addressed to his first patron, Giovanni Giacomo Fiesco, in 1569.
© Uppsala, Universitetsbiblioteket.

[Translation]

"To the Very Honourable Sir Giovanni Fiesco my Master.

These classical and sacred philosophers (my very honourable and attentive Lord) several times said and lively confirmed that the motions and configurations of the stars would be impossible without harmony. Aristoxene amongst others did not hesitate to say that man - a small world on his own - existed of music. We can also read that in Athens (mother and spring of the most noble genius) this worthy study was thought of so highly that the only black spot on Themistocles' reputation (the very courageous captain of that Republic) was the fact that he could not or would not play the lyre at dinners.
Whereas I cannot be happy enough that You, my Lord, are acquainted with such a beautiful and noble virtue. I am also very much obliged to you for the great affection you show towards my profession - apart from your other amiabilities and distinct signs of kindness towards me. Therefore it might be possible that - apart from your generous nature and laudable education - you are also acquainted in your actions with the virtue of moderation and modesty, which makes you amiable and precious to everyone and which becomes clear in all human actions, like the diapason does in all kinds of music. Thus I come to present to His Lordship, in good faith, this small three-part work of mine of Madrigals, Songs and Motets. I am certain that you will be glad to see that one of your loyal servants, such as I am, is fulfilling his obligation towards you to the best of his abilities.
Hereby I greet you and I beg for your good will.

His Lordship's humble servant,
Iean Castro


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