Dancing with the Sun King

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of the French Baroque with "Dancing with the Sun King," a captivating album by Ensemble Odyssee, featuring the enchanting chamber music of Michel Pignolet de Montéclair. This exquisite collection, released on October 18, 2019, under the Pan Classics label, offers a unique glimpse into the musical extravagance of the French court during the reign of the Sun King, Louis XIV.

The album is a meticulous recreation of a single evening's entertainment, divided into three distinct parts: "airs de fanfare," "airs tendres," and "airs champêtres." Each section is a vibrant tableau of dance and music, showcasing the elegance and refinement of the era. From the lively "Marché des bergers" and the playful "Pantalonade en rondeau" to the tender "Sarabande" and the majestic "Ouverture," every track is a testament to Montéclair's mastery of composition and his deep understanding of the dance forms that defined the period.

"Dancing with the Sun King" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a historical journey through the lavish dance balls and courtly entertainments of Versailles. Michel Pignolet de Montéclair, a prominent composer of his time, crafted these pieces with a keen ear for the rhythms and melodies that would captivate the aristocratic audience of his day. Ensemble Odyssee, with their impeccable performance, brings these historical gems to life, allowing modern listeners to experience the same joy and wonder that would have been felt in the grand halls of the French court.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to the rich tapestry of French Baroque music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Dancing with the Sun King" promises an enchanting and enlightening listening experience. So, let the music of Michel Pignolet de Montéclair transport you to a time of grandeur and grace, where every note is a step in a dance of pure elegance.

October 18, 2019

2019 Pan Classics

About Michel Pignolet de Montéclair

Michel Pignolet de Montéclair, born in 1667, was a distinguished French composer and musician of the Baroque era, renowned for his innovative and exquisite compositions. A prolific basse violon player, Montéclair's musical journey took him from the orchestras of the Paris Opéra to the courts of Italy, where he honed his craft and taught the daughters of the esteemed François Couperin. His body of work, though small, is celebrated for its diversity and creativity, earning him a place among the finest composers of his generation, bridging the gap between the era of Lully and the rise of Rameau. Montéclair's mastery of the bass violin and double bass, developed under the tutelage of Jean-Baptiste Moreau, is evident in his compositions, which continue to captivate audiences with their timeless appeal.