Jean-Joseph Cassanéa de Mondonville was one of the most
gifted composer-violinists of his day, regarded by some to be
the equal of Rameau. In 1740 he was appointed
sous maître at the royal chapel and from this date
there was also a close association with the Concert Spirituel.
Between 1740 and 1762 there were no less than 62 performances
of the grand motet 'Venite exultemus' and, over a similar period,
40 performances of 'De profundis'. Although Mondonville was active
also as a dramatic composer, it was probably his sacred vocal
and instrumental music that wom him greatest acclaim.
Recorded 13-14 July 1987
originally released on Hyperion 66269
Playing time : 61'55" DDD
Reviews
"
The performances are in the hands of a director who well
understands the specialised require-ments of French Baroque style."
The Gramophone
