Rameau: Concerts en sextuor

Dive into the world of Jean-Philippe Rameau with "Rameau: Concerts en sextuor," a captivating collection of six concertos, each meticulously transcribed for sextuor. Released on April 15, 2022, by the esteemed label Aparté, this album showcases the timeless elegance and genius of Rameau's compositions. Spanning a captivating hour and featuring 16 tracks, this release offers a rich exploration of Rameau's mastery of the Baroque era.

The "Concerts en sextuor" are, in fact, transcriptions of Rameau's "Pièces de Clavecin en Concert," originally conceived for harpsichord with accompaniment by violin or flute and bass viol. These transcriptions, dating back to 1768, were brought to light through Camille Saint-Saëns' monumental edition of Rameau's works. The album features performances by Les Accents, conducted by Thibault Noally, who bring a fresh and dynamic interpretation to these historic pieces.

Each concerto is a journey through Rameau's compositional brilliance, with titles such as "La Coulicam," "La Livri," and "La Rameau" adding a touch of whimsy and charm. The album's duration of 1 hour and 1 minute ensures a comprehensive and immersive experience, perfect for both casual listeners and classical music enthusiasts. Whether you're familiar with Rameau's work or discovering it for the first time, "Rameau: Concerts en sextuor" is a delightful addition to any classical music collection.

Jean-Philippe Rameau, a titan of French classical music, revolutionized the 18th-century musical landscape with his innovative compositions and groundbreaking theories. Born in Dijon in 1683, Rameau's legacy endures through his masterful operas, harpsichord works, and influential treatises on harmony. Often hailed as the successor to Jean-Baptiste Lully, Rameau's operatic genius transformed French opera, earning him the title of the leading French composer of his time. His prowess extended to the harpsichord, where he stood alongside François Couperin as a virtuoso. Rameau's catalog, categorized by the Rameau Catalogue Thématique, includes a wealth of cantatas, canons, and other musical gems that continue to captivate audiences today. Beyond his compositions, Rameau's theoretical works have left an indelible mark on the world of music, solidifying his status as a pioneer in the realm of harmony.