Bien que l'amour…airs sérieux et à boire

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of French Baroque music with "Bien que l'amour…airs sérieux et à boire," a captivating collection curated by the renowned ensemble Les Arts Florissants, led by the esteemed conductor William Christie. Released on April 1, 2016, via Harmonia Mundi, this album is a delightful journey through the Grand Siècle, featuring a harmonious blend of serious airs and drinking songs that showcase the elegance and wit of the era.

Spanning a generous 80 minutes, the album comprises 20 tracks that alternate between invocations to Bacchus and invitations to love. Les Arts Florissants, known for their impeccable ensemble playing and deep understanding of historical performance practices, bring these airs to life with a crack team of soloists. The recording features a seamless blend of sensual airs sérieux and vibrant, cheeky airs à boire, all performed with the ensemble's signature finesse and attention to detail.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "D'un feu secret je me sens consumer" and closes with the enchanting "Tout l'univers obéit à l'Amour," taking listeners on a musical voyage through the intricacies of love and desire. Along the way, you'll encounter a diverse range of compositions, from the delicate "Le repos, l'ombre, le silence" to the lively "Ayant bu du vin clairet, H. 446."

"Bien que l'amour…airs sérieux et à boire" is a testament to Les Arts Florissants' enduring passion for the music of the French Baroque. With this anthology, the ensemble invites you to explore the rich tapestry of airs sérieux and airs à boire, offering a unique perspective on the musical landscape of the Grand Siècle. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enchanting and engaging listening experience.

Les Arts Florissants is a distinguished French period-instrument ensemble renowned for its captivating performances of Baroque music. Founded by the esteemed harpsichordist William Christie in 1979, the ensemble comprises both singers and instrumentalists who specialise in bringing the music of the Baroque era to life with authentic period instruments. Under Christie's direction, Les Arts Florissants has garnered international acclaim for its radiantly musical interpretations, enchanting audiences worldwide with works by composers such as Charpentier, Handel, and Purcell. The ensemble's repertoire spans operas, oratorios, and vocal works, each performance offering a journey through the rich tapestry of Baroque music. With a commitment to historical accuracy and musical excellence, Les Arts Florissants continues to be a beacon of Baroque revival, captivating music enthusiasts with its vivid and virtuosic performances.