Henri Desmarets

Henri Desmarets, born in Paris in 1661, was a prodigious French composer of the Baroque era, renowned for his captivating stage works and sacred compositions. As a child, Desmarets showcased his extraordinary talent as a boy soprano in the royal chapel, quickly rising to prominence in the musical circles of King Louis XIV's court. His early career flourished under the patronage of the Sun King, with notable successes such as his opera "Endymion," which premiered at Versailles in 1682. Despite facing setbacks, including a scandal that led to his exile, Desmarets' music continued to enchant audiences with its distinctive style and emotional depth. His repertoire spans a wide range of genres, from grand motets and operas like "Didon" and "Iphigénie en Tauride" to secular cantatas and instrumental works. Desmarets' legacy endures as a testament to his enduring musical genius and his significant contributions to the French Baroque tradition.