Charpentier: Médée

Album Description

Dive into the dramatic world of Marc-Antoine Charpentier's "Médée," a masterful opera that stands as the pinnacle of his career. This 2024 release from Alpha Classics captures the essence of Charpentier's unique blend of French and Italian operatic styles, showcasing his genius and inventiveness. The album spans over an hour and seven minutes, featuring a rich tapestry of arias, choruses, and instrumental pieces that bring the tragic tale of Médée to life.

"Médée" is Charpentier's sole surviving tragédie lyrique, originally premiered in 1693, and it marks a significant return to the stage of the Opéra National de Paris. Under the direction of the renowned William Christie and the Arts Florissants, this recording promises an authentic and powerful interpretation of Charpentier's score. The album includes a prologue and five acts, filled with expressive arias and intricate orchestral arrangements that highlight Charpentier's mastery of the operatic form.

The cast features some of the most talented voices in the baroque repertoire, including Lea Desandre in the title role, alongside Ana Vieira and Reinoud Van Mechelen. The ensemble Le Concert Spirituel, conducted by Hervé Niquet, provides a vibrant and historically informed accompaniment, bringing out the rich textures and dramatic nuances of Charpentier's music.

This album is a testament to Charpentier's enduring legacy and his ability to blend the declamatory style of Lully with the expressive power of Italian opera. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the world of baroque music, "Médée" offers a captivating journey through one of the most compelling stories in classical mythology.

5 januari 2024

2023 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France

2023 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France, Centre de Musique Baroque de Versailles & Le Concert Spirituel

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.