Jean-Joseph CassanA©a de Mondonville, Edward Higginbottom, Charles Daniels, Gillian Fisher, London Baroque, Stephen Varcoe - Mondonville - De Profondis ~ Venite exultemus / Fisher, Ch. Daniels, Varcoe, London Baroque, Higginbottom

French grands motets with fire

Mondonville was among the last generation of French composers to write grands motets in the tradition of Lully, Delelande and Campra. While they conform to the usual pattern, I find that he has a bit more of an Italian fire to his music than the average French composer, especially in the more upbeat texts.

The De profundis sounds just like the title; out of the depths. The use of paired bassoons with the bass violins make for a dark and sombre tone that suites the words very well. I wonder if Mondonville was influenced by the motet on this text by Delalande, because the verse "Quia apud Dominum" is set for haute-contre and has a remarkably similar turn of phrase.

Venite exultamus is very different. Quite upbeat, and full of energy and vigor. Gillian Fisher is the real star here, and sings with a rather girlish sound that soars above the choir and orchestra. Charles Daniels is also superb, with both his arias taking him to fearsome heights, and requiring stunning control which he does with apparent ease. The real highlight is the setting of the final Gloria patri. It sounds almost like Vivaldi, and has amazing fire and energy. The boys of New College do a fine job of this piece.

The other three items are petits motets for soprano, violin, and obligato harpsichord - a very unusual scoring which is totally unique to the period as far as I know. All three are very good, and are welcome inclusions.

This Helios re-release is very affordable, and well worth the modest investment. May 21, 2008

Lovely

I enjoyed this recording, especially the "Venite". Lovely baroque feel to the music, with accurate singing from the soprano. I play it often. August 22, 2001

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