Operatic queens in French Baroque opera are depicted as charismatic, determined, and proud women who attempt to bend destiny to their will, driven by love, power, or vengeance.
Performer Biography
Véronique Gens, the soprano on this album, is recognized as a leading interpreter of Mozart and the French operatic repertoire.
Historical Context
The 'staff-wielding roles' in French Baroque opera, which included queens, sorceresses, and mothers, used a staff as a symbol of power or command, not just magic.
Performer Biography
Ensemble Les Surprises, founded in 2010 by viol player Juliette Guignard and organist/harpsichordist Louis-Noël Bestion de Camboulas, aims to explore operatic music and rediscover Baroque repertoire.
Critical Reception
In 2014, Ensemble Les Surprises received the 'Prix Révélation' (Best New Artists Prize), the first time a Baroque ensemble won this award in its 50-year history.
Performer Biography
Véronique Gens's performance as Donna Elvira in Peter Brook's production of Don Giovanni, conducted by Claudio Abbado, brought her international recognition.
Album & Artwork
This album, titled 'Reines' (Queens), focuses on operatic roles of queens in French Baroque opera from the 17th and 18th centuries.
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