Immerse yourself in the opulent world of French Baroque music with Jean-Baptiste Lully's masterful compositions, presented in this comprehensive collection. Released on April 3, 2012, by Tudor, this album features 35 tracks spanning just over an hour, offering a rich tapestry of Lully's operatic works. The album showcases selections from three of Lully's most renowned operas: "Phaeton," "Atys," and "Armide." Each piece is a testament to Lully's genius, blending intricate orchestration with captivating melodies that have stood the test of time.
The album opens with the dramatic overture from "Phaeton," setting the stage for a journey through the seasons and mythological narratives that Lully so masterfully brought to life. The preludes, rondes, and choruses from "Phaeton" are followed by the enchanting airs and dances from "Atys," including the famous "Sommeil" and the lively "Gavotte." The collection culminates with a suite of pieces from "Armide," including the elegant "Menuet pour les Flutes" and the grand "Passacaille."
This album is a treasure trove for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to Baroque music. Jean-Baptiste Lully, a dominant figure in 17th-century French music, held a monopoly on opera production during his lifetime, ensuring that his works were performed exclusively at the royal court and in Paris. His influence is evident in every track, making this collection an essential addition to any classical music library. The performances by the Capriccio Basel Baroque Orchestra, conducted by Dominik Kiefer, bring Lully's compositions to life with authenticity and vigor, providing an unparalleled listening experience.
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.
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Jean-Baptiste Lully
