Perfect Harmony: Music of the “Fête galante”

The fête galante was an early 18th-century movement in the French visual arts designed to stir emotions through familiar but idealized pastoral scenes of elegantly dressed people at leisure or play. This program will feature the works of Jean-Philippe Rameau, François Couperin, and Jean-Marie Leclair who translated the fête galante into music. Their songlike melodies and chordal harmonies directly engage the listener’s heart with images of nature, shepherds, and toe-tapping country dances. The concert will be video recorded for later release online, with limited seating for the live performance. A small studio audience will not only experience behind-the-scenes production of a virtual concert, but will also have a rare chance to hear and see two full-sized double manual harpsichords––a scene worthy of a fête galante painting!

Anchorage Festival of Music announces the virtual release of Perfect Harmony: Music of the “Fête galante”!

Experience the music of the “Fête galante” paired with the stunning paintings that defined this elegant 18th-century style. Our live audience had the rare treat of seeing two double-manual French harpsichords side by side. The virtual version offers the extra thrill of literally placing you onstage with the performers and instruments. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the French baroque as our performers present short commentary on the “Fête galante” and its composers.

Perfect Harmony: Music of the “Fête galante” on YouTube

Download concert program and text with translations.