Jean-François Paillard & Orchestre de Chambre Jean-François Paillard - La chasse du cerf (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of 18th-century French music with "La chasse du cerf" by Jean-François Paillard and his esteemed Orchestre de Chambre Jean-François Paillard. Released on December 1, 1995, under Warner Classics International, this chamber music album is a delightful exploration of themes centered around the hunt, featuring compositions by Morin, Mouret, Corrette, and Rameau.

The album opens with Morin's "La chasse du cerf," a seven-scene musical narrative that vividly depicts a deer hunt, complete with nymphs, gods, and a chorus. Each scene is a masterful blend of drama and elegance, showcasing the orchestra's prowess in bringing this pastoral tale to life. Following this, the album presents Mouret's "Symphonies de chasse," a trio of pieces that evoke the grandeur and excitement of a hunt, from the triumphant fanfare to the graceful gavottes and menuets.

Corrette's "Concerto comique No.14 'La Choisy'" adds a touch of humor and wit to the collection, with its playful allegro and adagio movements. The album concludes with selections from Rameau's "Hippolyte et Aricie," including a chorus, two arias, and a pair of menuets that highlight the composer's genius for blending French and Italian musical styles.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "La chasse du cerf" is a rich and engaging journey through the musical landscapes of the 18th century. Jean-François Paillard's meticulous direction and the Orchestre de Chambre Jean-François Paillard's exquisite playing make this album a treasure for both chamber music enthusiasts and those new to the genre.