André Campra: Motets pour Notre Dame de Paris

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and enchanting world of André Campra's "Motets pour Notre Dame de Paris," a stunning collection of motets composed during his tenure as maître de chapelle of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Released in 2016, this album features 21 tracks that showcase Campra's mastery of the motet form, blending French and Italian musical influences to create a rich and captivating listening experience.

André Campra's motets are renowned for their harmonic sophistication and charming accompaniments, making this album a true gem for fans of Baroque music. The ensemble Aquilon, under the direction of Sébastien Mahieuxe, delivers a breathtaking performance that brings Campra's compositions to life with precision and passion. Each track, from the opening "Immensus es Domine" to the closing "Salvum me fac Deus: Laudabo nomen Dei," is a testament to Campra's genius and the ensemble's exceptional skill.

This album is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a historical and cultural treasure. Campra's motets were incredibly popular in their time, drawing crowds to Notre-Dame to hear their ethereal beauty. With a duration of just over an hour, "Motets pour Notre Dame de Paris" offers a profound and immersive journey through the sacred music of the Baroque era. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

September 30, 2016

2016 Phaia Music

About André Campra

André Campra, born in 1660 in Aix-en-Provence, was a pivotal figure in French Baroque music, bridging the gap between the legendary Jean-Baptiste Lully and the innovative Jean-Philippe Rameau. As a composer and conductor, Campra's influence was immense, particularly in the realm of opera. He is credited with creating the "opéra-ballet" genre, a unique blend of French and Italian musical styles that captivated audiences. His stage productions were renowned for their spirited performances, and his tragic operas and ballet-operas were extremely well-received. Beyond his operatic achievements, Campra also made significant contributions to sacred music, including a requiem and numerous grand motets. His career spanned various prestigious positions, including music master at Notre-Dame de Paris and composer to the Chapelle Royale, leaving an indelible mark on French music. Campra's legacy endures, celebrated for his role in the renewal of French opera and his prolific output of both secular and sacred works.