U soffiu di a vita

Polyphonies corses (Corsican polyphonies) are a cappella, multi‑part vocal traditions from the island of Corsica. They are typically performed by small male ensembles (though women’s groups also exist) using three interlocking parts: u bassu (low drone/foundation), a secunda (principal melodic line), and a terza (upper part weaving ornaments and tension–release). The sound is characterized by open fifths, tight seconds, and richly beating intervals produced by close, non‑equal-tempered tuning. Melodic lines are highly ornamented, with portamenti and melismas, and pieces often begin with the secunda solo before the other parts enter. Repertoire spans sacred pieces (in Corsican Latin and vernacular devotion) and secular songs of pastoral life, love, the seasons, and communal memory. While rooted in medieval liturgical practices, the tradition also thrived in village life, transmitted orally and revived in the late 20th century through festivals and dedicated ensembles.