Mouret's career declined sharply after 1733, losing his positions and income, leading to a mental breakdown and his death in an asylum in 1738.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Despite being known for light dance music, Mouret's work also shows great profundity and dramatic intensity, as seen in movements like the 'Respice' from Usquequo Domine and the 'Chaconne' from the Concert de Chambre.
Composition History
Mouret became the official composer for the Comédie-Italienne (Italian Theatre) in 1717, composing around 150 divertissements over the next 20 years.
Recording & Production
This album is entirely dedicated to Jean-Joseph Mouret, the 'Musician of the Graces,' and was conceived after the Ensemble La Française recorded his first Concert de Chambre in 2018.
Composition History
Mouret co-directed the Concert Spirituel, one of the first public concert organizations, from 1728 to 1733, programming his own works including motets written specifically for it.
Composer Biography
Mouret earned the nickname 'Musician of the Graces' due to his reputation in divertissement and the success of his ballet Les Fêtes, ou le Triomphe de Thalie.
Composer Biography
Jean-Joseph Mouret, the composer, was born in Avignon, a city known for its festivals and traveling musicians, which influenced his taste for rhythm, melody, and cheerfulness.
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