Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Jean-Philippe Rameau with the captivating album "Rameau - The Sound of Light." Curated by the renowned Greek conductor Teodor Currentzis, this collection showcases a selection of Rameau's most exquisite orchestral and vocal works, primarily drawn from his operas and opera-ballets. Released in 2014 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Rameau's passing, this album is a testament to the composer's enduring legacy and the timeless beauty of his music.
Recorded in February 2014 at the Music Room in Hatchlands Park, Surrey, United Kingdom, the album benefits from the expertise of producer Tim Oldham and engineer David Hinitt, ensuring a pristine and immersive listening experience. The Soloists of the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela, under the direction of Bruno Procopio, bring Rameau's compositions to life with remarkable precision and passion.
"Rameau - The Sound of Light" features a diverse array of pieces, including excerpts from "Les Fêtes d'Hébé," "Zoroastre," "Les Boréades," "Les Indes galantes," "Platée," "Nais," "Hippolyte et Aricie," "Dardanus," and "Castor et Pollux." Each track is a masterclass in baroque elegance, showcasing Rameau's intricate melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. From the lively "Musette et Tambourin en rondeau" to the hauntingly beautiful "Air tendre en rendeau," the album offers a rich tapestry of sounds that highlight Rameau's genius.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Jean-Philippe Rameau, this album is a treasure trove of musical delights. The meticulous performances by the orchestra and choir, coupled with the exquisite vocal decorations by the singers, make "Rameau - The Sound of Light" a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the depths of 18th-century French baroque music.
(P) 2014 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
Les Fêtes d'Hébé, RCT 41, La Danse, Scène VII: Musette et Tambourin en rondeau pour TerpsichoreJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Zoroastre, RCT 62, Acte III, Scène VII: Gavotte en rondeauJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Les Boréades, RCT 31, Acte IV, Scène IV: Entrée pour les Muses, les Zéphyres, les Saisons, les Heures et les ArtsJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Les Indes galantes, RCT 44, Nouvelle entrée, Les sauvages, Scène VI: ChaconneJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Les Indes galantes, RCT 44, Troisième entrée, Les fleurs, Scène VIII: Ballet des fleurs - OrageJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Zoroastre, RCT 62, Act I, Scène III: Air tendre en rendeauJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Les Boréades, RCT 31, Acte I, Scène IV: Première contredanse en rondeau pour les Peuples boréades travestis en Plaisirs et Grâces - Deuxième contredanse en rondeau pour les Peuples boréades travestis en Plaisirs et GrâcesJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Les Indes galantes, RCT 44, Première entrée, Le turc généreux, Scène VI: Air pour les esclaves africainsJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Dardanus, RCT 35, Prologue, Scène II: Premier tambourin pour les Peuples de différentes nations - Deuxième tambourin pour les Peuples de différentes nationsJean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis
Castor et Pollux, RCT 32, Acte I, Scène III: Prélude - Air accompagné "Tristes apprêts"Jean-Philippe Rameau, Teodor Currentzis