Such richly independent writing would not be heard again for some time. Add to that the fact that some of Rameau’s particularly memorable tunes for the stage make their appearance here as well, and you have something indispensable for any lover of music.

Only a few years ago choices for this music were few, but now there are at least a dozen competing recordings on CD, dating as far back as Leonardt, Harnoncourt and Fryden (1956). One of my favorites has been that of Trio Sonnerie from 1986, which achieves a remarkable level of noblesse (listen to the inflections of the sighs in "La timide") which is the ne plus ultraof French style. Pinnock, Podger and Manson play at an equally high level - hear the sighs in "La Livri", another exquisite slow rondeau.

One might wish thesemovements even more pathetic, and the quickermovements slightly more flexible, but to do so would be churlishly seeking to gild the lily to an ethereal level. These are rewarding and lovely performances by masters of the art. The sound is lovely and well-balanced. Warmly recommended.
TOM MOORE

JEAN-PHILIPPE RAMEAU
Trevor Pinnock, Rachel Podger, Jonathan Manson
Channel Classics CCS 19098
2003 - 66:53 min.