Mazarin's introduction of Italian opera, such as Luigi Rossi's 'Orfeo', to France was met with mixed reactions; while the sets were admired, the length and Italian language made them tedious to the French public.
Composer Biography
Marc-Antoine Charpentier, a French composer, was the only French composer of Louis XIV's reign to study in Italy, where he was greatly influenced by composers like Carissimi.
Historical Context
Cardinal Mazarin, a 17th-century French statesman, was passionate about music and theatre, and sought to introduce Italian opera to the French court.
Historical Context
During the Fronde, a period of civil unrest in France, pamphlets called 'Mazarinades' (a term coined by poet Scarron) protested against Cardinal Mazarin, often attacking his political actions, fortune, and Italian accent.
Performer Biography
The ensemble le Jardin Secret, featuring soprano Elizabeth Dobbin, won both the first prize and the audience prize at the Early Music Network International Young Artists' Competition in York in 2007.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The album explores the contrasting characteristics of French and Italian music of the 17th century, with French music emphasizing sweetness and delicacy, and Italian music focusing on extravagance and passion.
Album & Artwork
The album's title, "Le Jardin Secret," is a French metaphor for the heart, representing a place of sensual beauty, mystery, contemplation, and emotion.
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