Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Classical

 

Les Lunaisiens is a French classical music ensemble that specializes in the performance of early music. The group was founded in 2004 by harpsichordist and conductor Arnaud Marzorati, who sought to create a chamber ensemble that would explore the rich repertoire of French Baroque music. The ensemble takes its name from the French word "lunaire," which means "lunar" or "moon-like." This name reflects the group's interest in the mystical and poetic aspects of early music, as well as its commitment to exploring the lesser-known corners of the Baroque repertoire. Les Lunaisiens is made up of a core group of musicians, including Marzorati on harpsichord, tenor Jean-François Novelli, soprano Claire Lefilliâtre, and viola da gamba player Bruno Cocset. The ensemble also collaborates with a number of guest musicians, including flutist Hugo Reyne and violinist Stéphanie-Marie Degand. Since its founding, Les Lunaisiens has become known for its innovative and engaging performances of early music. The group has performed at major festivals and concert halls throughout Europe, including the Festival de Saintes, the Festival de Sablé, and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. One of the highlights of Les Lunaisiens' career was its performance of Jean-Philippe Rameau's opera "Les Indes Galantes" at the Opéra de Dijon in 2012. This production, which was directed by choreographer Béatrice Massin, received critical acclaim for its vibrant and imaginative staging, as well as its musical excellence. In addition to its live performances, Les Lunaisiens has also released several acclaimed recordings. The group's debut album, "Le Concert Spirituel," was released in 2006 and featured music by composers such as Jean-Baptiste Lully and Marc-Antoine Charpentier. This album received widespread critical praise and helped establish Les Lunaisiens as one of the leading ensembles in the early music world. Other notable recordings by Les Lunaisiens include "Leçons de Ténèbres" (2009), which features music by François Couperin, and "Leçons de Ténèbres pour le Mercredy Saint" (2014), which features music by Michel-Richard de Lalande. Both of these albums received critical acclaim and helped cement Les Lunaisiens' reputation as one of the foremost interpreters of French Baroque music. In recognition of its achievements, Les Lunaisiens has received several prestigious awards and honors. In 2010, the ensemble was awarded the Diapason d'Or for its recording of "Leçons de Ténèbres." This award is one of the most prestigious in the classical music world and is given to recordings of exceptional quality. Les Lunaisiens has also been recognized for its commitment to promoting early music to a wider audience. In 2013, the ensemble was awarded the Prix Bettencourt Schueller for its work in bringing early music to new audiences through innovative programming and educational initiatives. Overall, Les Lunaisiens is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that has made significant contributions to the world of early music. With its commitment to exploring the rich and varied repertoire of French Baroque music, as well as its engaging and imaginative performances, the group has established itself as one of the leading ensembles in the early music world.

More....