This publication must be distinguished from many exhumations carried out under the pretext of a sudden contrition towards the creations of the composers. It has been known for quite a long time that Élisabeth Jacquet de la Guerre (1665-1729) was a gifted musical pioneer, and it was Jean-Claude Malgoire who, 35 years ago, revealed the major scope of lyric tragedy Cephalus and Procris (1694). Jacquet de la Guerre is 33 years younger than Lully, and 22 years younger than Charpentier. Here she draws the lessons from these masters (Medea by Charpentier, recently commented on, dates from 1693) with a superb personal touch in the harmonic treatment (magnificent modulations). It was important that the team at the Château de Versailles revisit this beautiful opera which will appeal to all admirers of the music of Lully and Charpentier. The cast is splendid, Reinoud van Mechelen (Céphale) directing the ensemble in which the Canadian Ema Nikolovska (L’aurore) stands out in one of her first records.
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