Ronsard et la musique. Cueillez, cueillez votre jeunesse !

In celebration of the 500th anniversary of the birth of Pierre de Ronsard, the renowned "Prince of Poets," Doulce Mémoire presents "Ronsard et la musique. Cueillez, cueillez votre jeunesse!" This meticulously crafted double album, released on September 6, 2024, by Alpha Classics, is a profound exploration of Ronsard's poetry set to music. Spanning nearly two hours and thirteen minutes, this ambitious project features 55 tracks that encapsulate the essence of Ronsard's lyrical genius and its enduring influence on music.

The album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ronsard's poetry, which has inspired over 400 musical settings. Doulce Mémoire, under the direction of Denis Raisin Dadre, brings together a stellar ensemble of musicians, including Marc Mauillon and Anne Le Bozec, to deliver a rich and varied musical experience. The tracks range from medieval-inspired compositions to requiems, showcasing the versatility and timelessness of Ronsard's verse.

Highlights include multiple settings of Ronsard's famous poems, such as "Mignonne, allon voir si la rose" and "Je suis tellement amoureux," each interpreted uniquely by different composers. The album also features declamations of Ronsard's texts, providing a direct connection to the poet's original words and intentions. This blend of vocal and instrumental pieces, along with the inclusion of both well-known and lesser-explored works, makes "Ronsard et la musique. Cueillez, cueillez votre jeunesse!" a comprehensive and captivating journey through the musical interpretations of one of France's most celebrated poets.