RAMEAU
Pieces de clavecin en concerts (1741)
1: La Coulicam. 2 La Laborde 3: La Poplinere. 4 : Las Pantomine. 5
La Forquerary.
Elaine Comparone (harpsichord)
Queens Chamber Band.
Lyrichord Discs LEMS 8040
(DDD) (66.20)
This disc can be purchased from the importer:
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As I am known for my love of modem " classic"
music I surprised a University class when they asked me whom I thought the
greatest opera composer was.
I replied, "Jean-Philippe Rameau."
Gasps went up throughout the lecture hall. I still stick to that view.
To me he is the very greatest of the early composers. He music has style,
life and coherence. But how badly it is invariably played.
But not here.
This disc is truly delightful.
The first concert starts with great attack particularly the cellist, Peter
Seidenberg. the oboist, Marsha Heller, is supremely articulate and the
harpsichordist, Elaine Comparone, a little distant at times, adds to the
strong vigour of a really dynamic performance. Oh, how I hate early music
played in that effeminate way as if you were comforting a baby. Prissy baroque
performances are loathsome and here is evidence of how to play this music
with fire and life. And the result is so good you cannot justify the affected
ghastly performances that have hitherto been all the rage. The intimacy of
the slow movement is so real that you experience it. This music and the
performance communicates at once and leaves a lasting impression. Some music
is taught and some music is caught . Some
music and performances are beyind the feeble efforts of praise.
The second concert is for flute, violin and harpsichord and the opening movement
has a infectious swagger to it and a joy about it. The skill and counterpoint
is flawless. And, in the nicest sense, this is foot-tapping music.
And to think that this music was modem when it was written!
When his music is played as well as this you will see what it contains..,
which ingredient is not in those effeminate and so authentically correct
performances. What is here is passion, real passion, unbridled and convincing.
I could go on and on but enough has been said.
This disc is a rare winner. You will not hear Rameau played better. This
disc is a touchstone . It has set such an
incredibly high standard that I cannot see how it will ever be equalled let
alone excelled. It is also the definitive example of how early music should
be played.
Superlative.
Now I must go and lie down!
David Wright
Performances 
recurring
Recording 
