Experience the Artistry of Louis Lacoste on STAGE+
Feast your eyes on the captivating art pieces by Louis Lacoste as we dive deep into his world filled with colour, passion, and storytelling. STAGE+ takes immense pleasure in presenting the masterpieces of this renowned artist, allowing you to witness his talent and understand his unique artistic vision.
Louis Lacoste, also known as De La Coste (c. 1675 – c. 1750), was a notable French composer and singer of the Baroque era. He began his career in the chorus of André-Cardinal Destouches’ Issé in 1697 and quickly rose through the ranks, serving as chorus master and later as the leader of the orchestra at the Paris Opéra from 1710 to 1714.
Major Stage Works
Lacoste specialized in vocal and stage music, particularly in the genre of French Baroque opera (tragédie en musique). His most significant and successful work was the opera Philomèle, first performed in 1705 by the Académie Royale de Musique at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal in Paris. Philomèle enjoyed several revivals (1709, 1723, 1734), underscoring its popularity at the time.
Contribution to Baroque Repertoire
Lacoste’s works are representative of the grandeur and expressive power of French Baroque opera. He blended ornate vocal writing with dramatic storytelling, tailored for the grand stage of the Paris Opéra. His music was composed for leading singers of his day and contributed to the repertoire designed for celebrated sopranos.
In our French Baroque Diva section, we are delighted to explore the marvellous "Soprano Arias for Marie Fel". Sung beautifully by the celebrated British soprano, Carolyn Sampson, and performed immaculately by Ex Cathedra under the baton of Jeffrey Skidmore, this collection of arias takes us back to the golden age of French Baroque music.
Modern Revival and Recordings
Selections from Lacoste’s operatic arias, including those written for renowned Baroque divas, continue to be performed and recorded. The album A French Baroque Diva: Soprano Arias for Marie Fel features soprano Carolyn Sampson with Ex Cathedra and conductor Jeffrey Skidmore, bringing renewed attention to Lacoste’s music alongside his contemporaries.
Precise, intricate and highly textured, Louis Lacoste's work and Marie Fel's arias together represent the blend of art and music at its best. Join us as we take a journey through the artistic feats of Louis Lacoste and the mesmerizing arias for Marie Fel, that not only reflect their inconvertible talent but also their unique interpretation of art and music.
Legacy
Despite not achieving enduring fame like some of his contemporaries, Lacoste’s music remains important for understanding the development of French Baroque opera. His contribution to the genre and his influence on the music of his time is undeniable. His legacy lives on in his works that continue to be performed and appreciated by audiences worldwide.