Through this concert, José-Daniel Castellon and The French Soloists invite us to delve into the virtuosity and expressive richness of Baroque repertoire. In a continuous dialogue between the solo flute and the orchestra, Bach’s Suite in B minor, BWV 1067 unfolds a succession of dances—both lively and refined—leading to the famous, sparkling Badinerie. From the French-style Overture codified by Lully, through the alternating Rondeau, the singing Sarabande, the playful Bourrées I and II, the spirited Polonaise and Double, the gentle Minuet, and finally the dazzling Badinerie, Bach’s writing combines grace and agility.
Continuing this dialogue between soloist and ensemble, Vivaldi’s concertos RV 433 and RV 443 are structured in three movements—fast, slow, fast. The Concerto in F major, subtitled La tempesta di mare, immediately paints vivid scenes of a storm through the flute’s racing scales. The serene Largo offers calm respite, before an energetic Presto bursts forth. The Concerto in C major for flautino (“small flute”) raises a question about the solo instrument—was it written for the sopranino recorder in F, or perhaps for the transverse piccolo flute? Whatever the performer’s choice, the soloist captivates with brilliance and flair.
Finally, Jean-Marie Leclair’s Concerto No. 3, Op. 7 presents a remarkable fusion of French elegance and Italian vivacity: a natural balance between refinement and passion.
An immersion into a repertoire where virtuosity, grace, and energy meet in perfect harmony.
Romane’s Preludes (1 hour before the concert)*
Are you passionate about classical music, intrigued by it, or does it feel like a foreign language? Sharpen your ears, awaken your curiosity, and join one of the Preludes led by our specialist. Enjoy 30 to 40 minutes of guided listening, context, discussion, and presentation in French. Six of our concerts are preceded by a free introductory talk. These engaging and welcoming sessions, open to all audiences, will take you to the heart of the music. One guiding principle: enjoyment!
*Romane Carbonnel, pianist, graduate of the Haute École de Musique Vaud-Valais-Fribourg (HEMU)
A. Vivaldi, La tempesta di mare, Concerto in F major for flute, strings and basso continuo, RV 433
J.-M. Leclair, Concerto No. 3 for violin or transverse flute, strings and basso continuo, Op. 7
A. Vivaldi, Concerto in C major for flautino, RV 443