Composer: Jean-Baptiste Lully
Works: Les Divertissements de Versailles
Performers: Sophie Daneman, Emmanuelle Halimi, Isabelle Obadia, Rinat Shaham (sopranos), Paul Agnew, Cyril Auvity (countertenors), Boris Grappe (baritone-bass), François Bazola, Olivier Lallouette (bass), Choeur et Orchestre Les Arts Florissants, William Christie
Recording: January 2002, espace de projection de l’IRCAM, Paris
Label: ERATO 0927-44655-2
Jean-Baptiste Lully, the pivotal composer of the French Baroque, occupies a singular position in the history of music as the architect of the French operatic style and the ballet de cour. His works vibrantly reflect the aesthetics and cultural values of the court of Louis XIV, encapsulating the grandeur and refinement of the era. “Les Divertissements de Versailles” presents a beautifully curated anthology of excerpts that traverse Lully’s oeuvre, showcasing the richness of his musical language and his sophisticated theatricality. This recording, under the expert guidance of William Christie and Les Arts Florissants, offers listeners an engaging journey through Lully’s musical landscape, emphasizing not just the beauty of the selections but their contextual significance.
The performance quality on this disc is exemplary, marked by the polished vocal interpretations and the collective synergy of the instrumental forces. The soprano line, particularly in pieces like “Chantons les plaisirs charmants” and “Venez, secondez mes désirs” from Armide, is rendered with exquisite clarity and emotional depth. Sophie Daneman and her colleagues exhibit remarkable control and expressiveness, navigating Lully’s intricate vocal lines with both bravura and finesse. The countertenors, Paul Agnew and Cyril Auvity, provide a contrasting timbre that enriches the texture, especially in the “Duo des Nymphes,” where their intertwining lines create an ethereal atmosphere.
Christie’s interpretation is deftly attuned to the stylistic nuances of the French Baroque, emphasizing Lully’s rhythmic vitality and lyrical flow. The orchestration, characterized by its elegant interplay between strings and winds, captures the opulence of the courtly setting, while the instrumental interludes, such as the moving “Passacaille” from Armide, serve to heighten drama and emotion. This attention to detail is complemented by the recording’s technical excellence; the sound is vibrant and well-balanced, allowing both the vocal and instrumental elements to shine. The engineering captures the resonance of the space beautifully, lending a sense of immediacy that immerses the listener in the music.
While the anthology format could potentially lead to a disjointed listening experience, the thoughtful selection and arrangement of the works create a cohesive narrative flow. Each piece transitions smoothly into the next, with careful attention paid to thematic continuity and emotional pacing. Comparatively, this recording stands as a commendable alternative to other interpretations of Lully’s music, such as those by Marc Minkowski or Philippe Herreweghe, who offer their own distinct perspectives on the same repertoire. However, Christie’s expertise in French music, combined with the vibrant energy of Les Arts Florissants, results in a particularly compelling listening experience that balances historical authenticity with interpretative flair.
This disc is a richly rewarding exploration of Lully’s music that not only serves as an exemplary introduction for those new to his work but also provides a fresh perspective for seasoned listeners. The artistry displayed by the performers, the thoughtful programming, and the high-quality production all contribute to an outstanding release that resonates with the grandeur and elegance of its subject. A delightful journey through the musical heritage of the Sun King, this recording is a testament to the enduring allure of Lully’s contributions to the world of classical music.
