1642, the English Civil War. King Charles II is in exile in France at the court of his first cousin, Louis XIV. There, he discovers the music of Versailles, which enthralls him such that it will follow him back to England in 1660. Many French musicians accompany him and make London their home, inspiring English composers fascinated by Jean-Baptiste Lully. There follows a period of remarkable renewal in English music, naturally inclined to integrate novel sounds, resulting in a myriad of exciting and engaging works influenced by the mixing of styles. They reflect the open-mindedness of this cosmopolitan court that welcomes the best artists from the continent.
Friday, May 17, 2024 - 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024 - 4 p.m. Sunday, May 19, 2024 - 2:30 p.m.
Franck-Emmanuel Comte,harpsichord and direction Heather Newhouse, soprano Arion Baroque Orchestra
PROGRAM
Robert CAMBERT & Louis GRABU Overture, excerpt from Pomone LULLY Excerpt from Psyché Nicholas LANIER Love's constancy ''No more shall meads'' Matthew LOCKE Excerpt from Psyché Suite from The Tempest Pelham HUMFREY ''Where the bee sucks'', excerpt from The Tempest PURCELL excerpts from The Tempest, King Arthur, The Fairy Queen