Claude Balbastre - Airs d'opéra accommodés pour le clavecin (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of 18th-century French music with Claude Balbastre's "Airs d'opéra accommodés pour le clavecin." Released on April 30, 2015, under the L'encelade label, this captivating album spans a little over an hour and sixteen minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions expertly performed on the harpsichord.

Claude Balbastre, a renowned figure in the French Baroque music scene, presents a meticulously curated collection of airs chosen from various operas, each piece adapted for the harpsichord. The album features a diverse array of compositions, including works from Balbastre himself, as well as pieces by other notable composers such as Rameau, Mondonville, and Scarlatti. From lively gavottes and graceful minuets to evocative airs and intricate pantomimes, this album showcases the versatility and virtuosity of Balbastre's playing.

Highlights include the dynamic "Ouverture de 'Pygmalion'," the delicate "Air de l'echo," and the spirited "Les petits marteaux de M. Rameau." The album also features selections from Balbastre's own "Pièces de clavecin, Book I," adding a personal touch to this already impressive collection.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer eager to explore the genre, "Airs d'opéra accommodés pour le clavecin" offers a delightful journey through the opulent world of 18th-century French opera, as seen through the eyes of one of its most accomplished musicians.