F. Couperin: Ariane consolée par Bacchus, Apothéoses de Lully & de Corelli
9/9/2016, 29 Tracks, 1:01:06
Featuring
Stéphane Degout
Christophe Rousset
Les Talens Lyriques
François Couperin
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Composer's Artistic Vision
François Couperin's two 'Apothéoses' are a monument to his muses, Lully and Corelli, and represent his goal of combining French and Italian styles to achieve 'musical perfection'.
Compositional Technique
Couperin's 'Apothéose de Lully' uses an overture in the French style, but with Italian influences like graceful triplets in slow sections, and features alternating minuets where Lully and Corelli exchange solo and accompaniment roles.
Composition History
The cantata 'Ariane consolée par Bacchus' is a recently rediscovered work by François Couperin, found in a manuscript volume that belonged to the Count of Toulouse, Louis XIV's son.
Performer Biography
Stéphane Degout, the baritone on this recording, was appointed 'Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres' in 2012, recognizing his significant contribution to French cultural heritage.
Performer Biography
Christophe Rousset, the harpsichordist and director, founded the period instrument ensemble Les Talens Lyriques 25 years ago, named after a Rameau opera.
Recording & Production
The 'Apothéoses' on this album were recorded in the 14th-century Dominican monastery in Guebwiller, a site known for its exceptional acoustics, which were originally designed to enhance sermons.
