Rameau: Hippolyte et Aricie

Jean-Philippe Rameau's "Hippolyte et Aricie" is a masterful journey through the world of Baroque opera, showcasing the composer's genius and his significant contribution to French musical theater. This album, released in 2011 by Archiv Produktion, presents Rameau's first tragédie lyrique, which premiered in 1733 at the Académie Royale de Musique. The opera is a stunning blend of drama and music, inspired by the works of Jean Racine and Euripides, and features a prologue and five acts filled with intricate arias, duets, and choruses.

The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Rameau's compositional style. The opera is renowned for its rich orchestration and innovative harmonies, which set it apart from the works of his contemporaries. The story of "Hippolyte et Aricie" revolves around the tragic love of Phèdre for her stepson Hippolyte, but unlike Racine's play, Rameau's opera offers a more hopeful resolution, focusing on the characters of Hippolyte and Aricie.

This recording features a stellar cast of vocalists and the renowned Les Musiciens du Louvre, conducted by Marc Minkowski, who bring Rameau's score to life with precision and passion. The album includes the complete opera, from the opening overture to the final notes, providing an immersive experience of Rameau's musical brilliance. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a captivating introduction to the world of Jean-Philippe Rameau and his enduring legacy in the realm of classical music.