Despite his importance, Jean-Philippe Rameau's name does not appear on the façade of the Palais Garnier in Paris, and his work disappeared from public view for two centuries.
Composer Biography
Jean-Philippe Rameau, a master of French opera, was a revolutionary in his time but was later considered conservative during the Querelle des Bouffons in the 1750s.
Composer Biography
Pancrace Royer, a contemporary of Rameau, rose through royal circles from music master to the King's children to director of the Paris Opéra shortly before his death.
Cultural Impact
The 'Assas harpsichord' played a crucial role in the rediscovery of 17th and 18th-century music, with Scott Ross recording complete works by Rameau, Couperin, and Scarlatti on it.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Both Rameau and Royer, two of the most imaginative composers of their era, attempted to capture the grandeur of theatre using the harpsichord's palette.
Instruments
The harpsichord used for this recording is a Pierre Donzelague instrument from 1710, housed at the Château d'Assas, and is known worldwide as the 'Assas harpsichord'.
Recording & Production
The album's theme explores the harpsichord's ability to transform grand Baroque theatrical works into intimate experiences, much like the piano did in the 19th century.
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