François Couperin, a member of a long dynasty of musicians, was known as 'le Grand' and was a leading French composer of his generation.
Historical Context
In the 1690s, Parisian composers, including Couperin, were influenced by Italian music, especially the works of Archangelo Corelli, a trend that challenged French musical insularity.
Interpretation
Edward Higginbottom, the director of this recording, composed new string parts for three of Couperin's motets, aiming to match Couperin's likely style.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Couperin's compositional style judiciously mixed Italian and French influences, a blend later celebrated in his collection "Les goûts réunis."
Compositional Technique
Couperin's "petits motets" transferred the Italian trio-sonata idiom to the motet genre, featuring a more periodic melodic style and contrapuntal textures.
Composition History
Three of the motets on this album, "Resonent organa," "Ornate aras," and "Exultent superi," were previously unperformable due to missing string parts.
Recording & Production
This recording features the first performance and recording of three of Couperin's motets in a performable state since the early 18th century.
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Lully: Petits Motets
Lully: Grand Motets, Vol. 2
Maria Xaveria Perucona & Chiara Margarita Cozzolani: Psalmen und Motetten aus italienischen Konventen (Gaude, Plaude!)
