Lully: Miserere

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and stirring compositions of Jean-Baptiste Lully with this captivating collection of his grand motets. Released in 2022, this album showcases Lully's mastery of religious music, featuring his renowned "Miserere," a profound and deeply moving work that stands as one of the most famous French motets of the 17th century. The album also includes the powerful "Quare Fremuerunt Gentes" and the jubilant "Jubilate Deo," both of which highlight Lully's ability to blend spiritual depth with musical brilliance.

Performed by Stéphane Fuget and Les Épopées, this recording brings to life the rich textures and dramatic contrasts that define Lully's religious works. The album spans a duration of one hour and six minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Lully's sacred repertoire. From the somber introspection of the "Miserere" to the triumphant exultation of the "Jubilate Deo," each piece is a testament to Lully's enduring legacy as a composer of profound spiritual and musical significance.

This album is a treasure trove for fans of classical and sacred music, providing a rare opportunity to experience the full range of Lully's religious compositions in one cohesive collection. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.

February 11, 2022

2022 Château de Versailles Spectacles

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.