Lully: Aliter cogitant mundi

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of French Baroque music with Jean-Baptiste Lully's "Aliter cogitant mundi," a captivating collection of chamber trios performed by the Orchestre Baroque d’Avignon. This album, released in 2020, offers a rich tapestry of symphonies, dances, and airs that showcase Lully's mastery of the French style. With 22 tracks spanning 28 minutes, it presents a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Lully's compositional genius.

Jean-Baptiste Lully, a prominent figure in the musical landscape of 17th-century France, is renowned for his contributions to opera, ballet, and instrumental music. His works, characterized by their elegance and rhythmic vitality, have left an indelible mark on the Baroque era. "Aliter cogitant mundi" features selections from Lully's "Trios de la Chambre du Roi," a set of chamber works that exemplify his ability to blend melody, harmony, and rhythm in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

The album opens with a lively symphony, setting the stage for a journey through various dance forms and musical expressions. From the stately sarabande to the lively menuet and gavotte, each piece is performed with precision and passion by the Orchestre Baroque d’Avignon. The ensemble's commitment to historical performance practices ensures an authentic and immersive listening experience.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, "Aliter cogitant mundi" offers a delightful introduction to the world of Jean-Baptiste Lully. The album's diverse repertoire and the ensemble's virtuosic playing make it a standout addition to any classical music collection. So, sit back, relax, and let the timeless music of Jean-Baptiste Lully transport you to the grandeur of the French Baroque court.

July 25, 2020

2020 ‎Jean-Baptiste Lully

2020 Orchestre Baroque d’Avignon

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.