Charpentier, M.-A.: Messe Pour Mr Mauroy / 5 Tenebrae Responsories

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, Baroque splendor of Marc-Antoine Charpentier's "Messe Pour Mr Mauroy" with this exquisite recording. Composed around 1690, this mass is unique in Charpentier's oeuvre as it is the only one dedicated to a specific individual, Monsieur Mauroy. Spanning over 1,500 measures, it is also his longest mass setting, showcasing the composer's mastery and depth.

This album, released by Hungaroton, features the Purcell Choir and the Orfeo Orchestra, conducted by the renowned György Vashegyi. The performance is a testament to the ensemble's skill and Vashegyi's insightful direction, bringing Charpentier's intricate compositions to life with vivid clarity and warmth.

The album includes the complete "Messe Pour Mr Mauroy," along with five Tenebrae Responsories, offering a comprehensive exploration of Charpentier's sacred music. The recording captures the full grandeur of the Baroque era, with the choir and orchestra blending seamlessly to create a resonant and powerful sound. The album's duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes provides a substantial and rewarding listening experience.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer eager to explore the genre, this album is an excellent introduction to Charpentier's work. The meticulous attention to detail in the performance and the high-quality recording ensure that every nuance of Charpentier's composition is brought to the forefront, making this a captivating and enriching listen.

15 juli 2014

2014 Hungaroton

About Marc-Antoine Charpentier

Marc-Antoine Charpentier, born in or near Paris in 1643, stands as one of the most prolific and versatile composers of the French Baroque era. His musical journey took him to Rome, where he studied under the renowned Giacomo Carissimi, absorbing the rich Italian musical styles that would later blend seamlessly with his native French influences. Charpentier's compositions span a wide range of genres, including operas, oratorios, sacred music, and instrumental works, making him a true polymath of the Baroque period.

One of Charpentier's most enduring legacies is the iconic theme from the prelude of his Te Deum H.146, known as "Marche en rondeau." This stirring piece continues to resonate today, serving as the fanfare for television broadcasts of the Eurovision Network and the European Broadcasting Union. His collaboration with Molière on the comedy-ballet "Le Malade imaginaire" further cemented his reputation as a master of both sacred and secular music.

Charpentier's work is notable for its integration of Italian and French styles, creating a unique and captivating sound that has earned him recognition as one of the outstanding composers of his generation. His prolific output, which includes over 550 pieces of music, reflects his versatility and deep understanding of various musical forms. Whether composing for the stage, the chapel, or the court, Charpentier's music remains a testament to his enduring genius and influence on the Baroque era.