Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, portraits en musique

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of 18th-century French music with "Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, portraits en musique," a captivating album by the renowned harpsichordist Olivier Baumont. Released on October 7, 2022, via Warner Classics, this exquisite collection pays homage to the celebrated pastel portraitist Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, blending his artistic vision with the musical genius of his contemporaries.

Spanning 56 minutes, the album features 21 tracks that showcase the elegance and sophistication of the French Baroque and Classical periods. Olivier Baumont's masterful performances bring to life compositions by Jean-Joseph de Mondonville, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Claude-Bénigne Balbastre, and Jacques Duphly, among others. Each piece is a testament to the refined taste and artistic sensibilities of the era, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that will delight and inspire.

From the delicate grace of Balbastre's opera-inspired airs to the intricate beauty of Rameau's concert pieces, this album is a journey through the opulent salons and grand theaters of 18th-century France. Baumont's virtuosity and deep understanding of the harpsichord shine through in every note, providing a vivid and authentic experience of the music that would have accompanied de La Tour's exquisite portraits.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, portraits en musique" offers a compelling introduction to the rich musical heritage of France's golden age. Let the timeless melodies and Olivier Baumont's exquisite playing transport you to a world of elegance and refinement.

7 oktober 2022

A Warner Classics/Erato release, ℗ 2022 Parlophone Records Limited

About Olivier Baumont

Olivier Baumont, a renowned French harpsichordist, is celebrated for his deep curiosity, passion, and scholarly approach to music. With a career spanning several decades, Baumont has performed at major festivals worldwide, captivating audiences with his keen sense of communication and engaging stage presence. His extensive discography, praised internationally, includes solo works by composers such as Rameau, François Couperin, Bach, Handel, and Telemann, as well as lesser-known Russian and American composers of the 18th century. Baumont's journey began at the Conservatoire d'Annecy, followed by the Conservatoire national supérieur de Paris, where he earned top honors. His mentors included the esteemed Huguette Dreyfus and Kenneth Gilbert. Beyond his performances, Baumont is also known for his educational efforts, conducting masterclasses and sharing his love for 17th and 18th-century music with enthusiasts everywhere. His initiative to present the complete works of Johann Sebastian Bach for harpsichord at the Philharmonie/Cité de la musique in Paris further underscores his commitment to the art form.