Throughout the 18th century, the Paris Opera assembled France's finest singers in its company, and the audience gushed over their dramatic voices and noble and passionate performances.Some singers specialised in brilliant virtuoso roles: the operas of Rameau and his contemporaries brought performers like mademoiselles Petitpas, Fel and Lemière some of the greatest triumphs seen on the Paris stage between 1730 and 1770. The programme for this concert pays tribute to their artistry with excerpts of operas by Rameau, Dauvergne, Royer and Mondonville, many of which are still not performed today and are being presented here for the first time since their premières nearly three centuries ago.In spite of heavy Italian influences, these composers preserved the wonderfully glorious sound of French orchestral music. This will therefore be much more than a traditional aria concert. The performing artists will also invite the audience on a journey to the world of French opera during the Age of Enlightenment. (Benoît Dratwicki)
A joint production of the Orfeo Music Foundation and the Centre de Musique Baroque de Versailles.
Sponsored by: Centre de Musique Baroque de Versailles, National Cultural Fund, Ministry of Human Capacities, Municipality of Budapest District I (Buda Castle District), Institut Français de Budapest, fidelio.hu

Presented by: Sysart Kft., Orfeo Music Foundation