Composer: CHARPENTIER
Performers: Les Arts Florissants, William Christie
Recording Venue: Grande Salle, Cité de la Musique, Paris
Recording Dates: 21-22 December 2000
Label: ERATO 8573-85820-2
Duration: 57:02
In this splendid recording of Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s Christmas Music, William Christie directs Les Arts Florissants in a compelling exploration of works that encapsulate the composer’s extraordinary versatility and originality during the 1690s, a period of prolific output that solidified Charpentier’s reputation as a key figure in the French Baroque.
The disc features two principal works: In Nativitatem Domini Canticum and the Messe de Minuit, both of which were likely intended for liturgical performance at the Jesuit Church of Saint-Louis, where Charpentier served as Master of the Music. The historical context of these compositions is significant; they reflect the synthesis of the sacred and the secular, an endeavor that was particularly resonant in the Baroque era when the boundaries between these domains often blurred.
In Nativitatem Domini Canticum unfolds the Christmas narrative with a series of instrumental interludes that display a delightful refinement. The integration of three instrumental arrangements of popular carols, known as Noëls sur les instruments, serves as a bridge between the liturgical text and the familiar tunes of the season, enhancing the accessibility of the work. The juxtaposition of the sacred and the festive is particularly effective, creating a tapestry that is both joyous and contemplative. The engaging characterizations—most notably of the heavenly choir and the angel addressing the shepherds—invoke an operatic sensibility that invites the listener into the narrative.
The Messe de Minuit is a particularly noteworthy work for its innovative compositional structure. It employs eleven carol melodies, adapted to the liturgical text, which results in a unique amalgamation of styles. The seamless integration of these melodies into the Mass setting creates an intriguing juxtaposition of the sacred and the popular. Here, Charpentier’s contrapuntal mastery is on full display; the original carol forms maintain their catchiness while being enveloped in a more complex harmonic framework. This delicate balance is expertly navigated by Christie and his ensemble, who bring a nuanced understanding of the music’s distinctive character.
Christie’s interpretative choices shine throughout this recording. The low pitch (A=392) not only aligns with the historical performance practice of the time but also enriches the overall tonal palette, offering a warmth that is often absent in modern interpretations. The orchestra, consisting of 27 players, along with a chorus of 26 and ten solo singers, performs with a sophistication that is both refined and communicative. The clarity of the vocal lines, particularly in the choral sections, allows for the intricate counterpoint to emerge with remarkable transparency.
In terms of recording quality, this Erato release is commendably engineered, capturing the vibrant acoustics of the Grande Salle at the Cité de la Musique. The balance between the orchestra and vocals is well-maintained, allowing for a full appreciation of the dynamic contrasts that characterize Charpentier’s writing. The engineering effectively supports the performance, ensuring that the listener can fully engage with both the lush orchestration and the delicate vocal lines.
Comparatively, while there have been notable recordings of Charpentier’s Christmas music—such as those led by Philippe Herreweghe or the more recent interpretations by the Ensemble Correspondances—this rendition by Christie and Les Arts Florissants stands out for its lively interpretation and historical authenticity. The ensemble’s long-standing rapport with the repertoire is evident, as they imbue the music with a sense of joyous celebration that is both infectious and uplifting.
In conclusion, this recording of Charpentier’s Christmas Music is not merely a collection of seasonal works; it is a vibrant and thoughtful presentation of a composer who sought to intertwine the sacred with the festive. With its expertly crafted performances and rich historical context, this disc serves as an ideal accompaniment to the Christmas season, illuminating the depth and beauty of Charpentier’s music. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of Baroque traditions, inviting both familiarity and discovery in equal measure.
