Nicolas Lebègue, the principal organist of King Louis XIV from 1678 until his death in 1702, represents the first state of perfection for the French organ. Alternating great virtuoso pieces worthy of the pomp of Versailles, inspired Noëls and poetic elevations, these Vêpres de Noël ("Christmas Vespers") showcase the traditional alternation of vocal pieces, as practised by nuns in Paris, Port-Royal or the Filles-Dieu who attended to prisoners sentenced to death: Lebègue’s Motets for single voice, and the Plain-chant composed by Nivers for use in Paris. All the atmosphere of this "French-style" nativity is recreated with generosity and beauty under the direction of Nicolas Bucher, on the keys of the Great Organ of the Chapelle Royale.
This programme was recorded at the Royal Chapel of Versailles from 26th to 29th November 2021. © Château de Versailles Spectacles