The Ensemble Leviathan's approach to Baroque music emphasizes expressiveness and theatricality, even embracing 'bizarre, disturbing, and ugly aspects' to convey the full range of human passions.
Historical Context
Charles II, the English monarch, had a strong preference for French culture and music, even establishing a string band modeled after Louis XIV's.
Album & Artwork
The album title, 'Delight in Disorder', is a reference to a disc by Pedro Memelsdorff and Andreas Staier, which inspired Lucile Tessier's passion for the recorder and English music.
Historical Context
The influx of French music and musicians into England during the Restoration period led to political tensions, with some English musicians resenting the king's preference for French culture.
Performer Biography
Lucile Tessier, the founder of Ensemble Leviathan, is a multi-instrumentalist who performs on recorder, bassoon, and oboe, and is also conducting musicological research on 'Madness in English stage music'.
Historical Context
Louise de Kéroualle, Charles II's chief mistress, played a significant role in introducing French music to the English court, influencing the musical landscape for political reasons.
Historical Context
French musicians sent to England, including those associated with Louise de Kéroualle, were also expected to spy on King Charles II for France.
