Conversation Chocolat

Charpentier (1643-1704) is best known for his religious works and the opera "Medée". He also wrote a number of chamber music works (instrumental and vocal) of which three were released on CD. "Les plaisiers de Versailles H.480" is described as an opera-like divertimento. Actually an opera with only one act that takes about half an hour. This work was intended for performance in Versailles within the palace to entertain the king. "Airs sur les stances du cid H.457-459" are three 'airs sérieux', songs for solo voice with basso continuo accompaniment. These airs are set on texts from Corneille's drama "Le cid". "Amor vince ogni cosa H.492" is a dramatic pastoral; a small cantata with a pastoral character for five voices that mainly function as a shepherd's chorus and comment on the events. They have not inherited their own character yet. The accompaniment is Italian as well: two violins and basso continuo. Of course, the love between shepherds and shepherdesses plays the most important role, assisted by Pan, god of the shepherds.

In 2015 our most recent Charpentier recording to date, La Descente dOrphée aux Enfers with young soloists and the Boston Early Music Festival Chamber Ensemble, received the Grammy Award for the »Best Opera Production« of the preceding year and Gramophones »Editors Choice.« Our new CD featuring two »mini-operas« by Charpentier again offers enthralling performances of this court music of charming dance character and elegance. In contrast to Charpentiers other operas, Les Plaisirs de Versailles is directly associated with Louis XIV.