Lully: Acis et Galatée, LWV 73

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of French Baroque opera with Jean-Baptiste Lully's "Acis et Galatée, LWV 73," a captivating live recording released on Naxos. This three-act masterpiece, composed in 1686, is based on a libretto by Jean Galbert de Campistron, inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses. The album, released on October 13, 2023, spans 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Lully's musical genius.

Under the baton of Jean-François Lombard, the Orchestre du Maggio Musicale Fiorentino and the Coro Del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino bring Lully's score to life with vibrant energy and historical authenticity. The stellar cast, featuring Elena Harsányi, Luigi De Donato, and Federico Maria Sardelli, delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, showcasing the dramatic range and lyrical beauty of Lully's music.

"Acis et Galatée, LWV 73" is a testament to Lully's enduring influence on the development of French opera. The album features a rich tapestry of arias, choruses, and instrumental pieces, highlighting the composer's mastery of melody, harmony, and orchestration. From the lively overture to the poignant passacaille, each track offers a unique glimpse into the world of 17th-century French opera.

This live recording, captured at the Château de Versailles Spectacles, provides an intimate and authentic experience of Lully's music. The album's high-quality production and engaging performances make it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or a curious newcomer, "Acis et Galatée, LWV 73" offers a captivating journey into the world of Jean-Baptiste Lully and the golden age of French Baroque opera.

October 13, 2023

2023 Naxos Rights (Europe) Ltd

About Jean-Baptiste Lully

Jean-Baptiste Lully, born in Florence in 1632, was a titan of French Baroque music, despite his Italian roots. His life's work was deeply intertwined with the opulent court of Louis XIV, where he served as a composer, dancer, and instrumentalist. Lully's influence was so profound that he effectively controlled French court music from 1662 onwards, and his style resonated throughout Europe. He is renowned for his operas and his collaborations with the playwright Molière on numerous comédie-ballets, including the iconic "Le Bourgeois gentilhomme."

Lully's contributions to music are vast, with over 40 ballets and a significant body of sacred music to his name. He is credited with founding the French opera genre, creating a unique style of musical declamation that perfectly suited the French language. His tragic death in 1687, resulting from an infection caused by a conducting stick, only adds to the dramatic narrative of his life. Lully's legacy endures, making him a pivotal figure in the history of European music.