Grétry: Airs & Ballets

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry with the captivating album "Grétry: Airs & Ballets." Released in 2003 by Ricercar, this collection showcases the brilliance of Grétry, a prominent 18th-century composer renowned for his contributions to the opéra-comique genre. Spanning a total of 19 tracks and clocking in at just over an hour, this album is a delightful journey through some of Grétry's most exquisite arias and ballet music.

The album opens with selections from "Céphale et Procris," including the lively "Entrée des Heures du matin" and the delicate "Ariette 'Mon coeur blessé.'" These pieces, along with others like the "Ballet des Nymphes de Diane" and the "Danse infernale," offer a glimpse into Grétry's mastery of orchestral and vocal composition. The album also features excerpts from "Les deux avares," "Anacréon chez Polycrate," and "La caravane du Caire," each showcasing Grétry's versatility and ingenuity.

Performed by the talented Sophie Karthäuser and Les Agrémens under the direction of Guy Van Waas, this album is a testament to Grétry's enduring legacy. The performances are vibrant and full of character, bringing Grétry's music to life with a fresh and engaging interpretation. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Grétry: Airs & Ballets" is sure to captivate and inspire. Dive into this collection and experience the timeless beauty of Grétry's compositions.

January 1, 2003

2008 Outhere

2003 Ricercar

About André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry

André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry, born in Liège (now in Belgium) in 1741, was a pioneering composer who significantly shaped the landscape of French opéra comique. His journey began under the tutelage of his father, a violinist, and continued with formal studies in Rome and Geneva, where he crossed paths with the renowned Voltaire. Grétry's compositions, numbering around 70 opéras-comiques, were immensely popular in his time, earning him the title of the most successful composer of opéra-comique in France during the latter part of the 18th century. His innovative works not only entertained but also carried profound social impact, marking a pivotal evolution in the genre from lighthearted plays to more serious musical dramas. Grétry's influence extended beyond his contemporaries, inspiring the likes of Mozart and Beethoven, who both paid homage to his music through their own compositions. Despite his initial acclaim, Grétry's legacy has often been overshadowed by those he influenced, yet his contributions remain a testament to his enduring artistic vision.