Customer Reviews

Rameau: Orchestral Suites from Nais & Le Temple de la Gloire

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The two baroque "court pieces" here showcase Rameau's gift and musicianship. Musical passages are very ornamental, a stark contrast to the crisp sound of the Italian baqoque. Both Nais and The Temple of Glory are very energetic with many dance parts, and listening to it is both uplisfting and relaxing. The sound quality is excellent. Highly recommended.

Ironically (maybe), while the operas from which these suites are extracted aren't among Rameau's important ones, the orchestral music itself is some of the most colorful and entertaining that Rameau produced. The slow music is elegant and dignified, as usual with with this master, but the more boistrous stuff is absolutely brilliantly martial, with flashing trumpets, thundering timpani. Each Tambourin is a witty gem--in all, this is Baroque orchestral music at its best.

But then again, the performances are perfect or as close as mortals can get to that mark. William Christie's forces, good as they usually are, outdo themselves here, obviously enjoying themselves immensely. You can't produce results like these unless you do--which is another compliment to Rameau and his genius. First-rate sound with lots of presence rounds out the package.

Well executed, wonderful music. Its hard to beat Mcgegan and his band. He's done several CDs of Rameau orchestral music, and all are standouts. Nais is in a league of its own in terms of musical invention and brilliance. The overture is outstanding. (Incidentally, Christophe Rousset and Les talens Lyriques do a "take no prisoners" version of the Nais overture on their CD of Rameau overtures....that's the only place where Mcgegan has been eclipsed in my book)

A nice blend of relaxing and beautiful baroque music. If one loves baroque music, then one's library must not lack this amazing CD. Very pleasing.

Jean Philippe Ramaeu made a name for himself with meticulously composed suites and operas, and the composer showed an innovation that elevated him above his contemporaries. While Franz Bruggen's approach to the composer is more intimate, McGegan's interpretation is nuanced and captivating.

This disc contains some of the lesser known dance works of the great Rameau. Thay are brilliant and extremely colorful as the music of Rameau is known for especially in the pastoral peices and the lively tambourins, and gigues. A must for all fans of Rameau, French culture, and the baroque period with the all the richness and majesty and pomp that was its hallmark. A glorious buy filled with music fit for the ears of angels!

I heard the conductor conduct this piece and had to have it. It is great music for a sunny Sunday afternoon.