Un voyage: Au coeur des opéras de Jean-Baptiste Lully

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of French Baroque opera with "Un voyage: Au coeur des opéras de Jean-Baptiste Lully," a captivating live album that showcases the timeless genius of Jean-Baptiste Lully. This exquisite collection, released on August 26, 2016, under the Phaia Music label, offers a rich tapestry of arias and overtures from some of Lully's most celebrated operas, performed by the talented ensemble Les Pages et les Chantres du Centre de Musique Baroque de Versailles, Musica Florea, and the Symphonistes du Centre de Musique Baroque de Versailles, all under the skilled direction of Olivier Schneebeli.

Spanning a generous 75 minutes, this album features 12 tracks that highlight Lully's mastery of melody and harmony. From the stirring overture of "Isis" to the enchanting arias like "J'ai perdu la beauté" from "Persée" and "Les plaisirs ont choisi pour asile" from "Armide," each piece is a testament to Lully's enduring influence on the world of classical music. The live performances capture the energy and passion of these works, making this album a treasure trove for both seasoned classical enthusiasts and those new to the genre.

Jean-Baptiste Lully, a prominent composer of the Baroque era, was known for his innovative approach to opera, blending Italian and French styles to create a unique and captivating sound. His compositions, characterized by their grandeur and elegance, continue to resonate with audiences today. This album provides a rare opportunity to experience Lully's music in a live setting, bringing the splendor of 17th-century French opera to life.

The album's tracklist is a journey through some of Lully's most iconic operas, including "Isis," "Amadis," "Alceste," "Persée," and "Armide." Each track is meticulously performed, showcasing the technical prowess and artistic sensitivity of the performers. Whether you're a fan of Baroque music or simply appreciate beautiful music, "Un voyage: Au coeur des opéras de Jean-Baptiste Lully" is an album that will delight and inspire.

August 26, 2016

2016 Phaia Music

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.