Dardanus

Following the successful exploration of Bach's 'five' Missae Breves, which culminated in the triumph of the original version of the B minor Mass, Ensemble Pygmalion has now turned its attention to recording Rameau's Dardanus. This decision came after a series of concerts that received unanimous praise from critics.

Although the second version of Dardanus proposed by Pygmalion is considered superior from a dramatic perspective, it had not been performed until now, with the exception of the well-known aria 'Lieux funestes' from Act IV. Gilles Rico undertook the task of creating a new edition based on the 1744 original, taking into account the numerous changes made by Rameau between 1744 and 1760 as he sought to enhance the emotional impact of the music.

Dardanus originally drew inspiration from the rigid structure of Lully's tragedie lyrique, yet it also showcased Rameau's penchant for 'extraordinary stories'. The work delves into more intimate and human aspects of drama, laying the groundwork for the psychological explorations that would come to define the Classical era. Through this exploration, Rameau continually sought to elevate the music's emotional depth.

Ensemble Pygmalion's recording of Dardanus not only breathes new life into this masterpiece but also sheds light on the evolution of musical drama during the transition from the Baroque to the Classical era. With their meticulous attention to detail and profound understanding of the work's historical context, Ensemble Pygmalion has once again demonstrated their prowess in bringing forgotten gems of the past back to the forefront of the musical landscape.

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