ANDRÉ-ERNEST-MODESTE GRÉTRY (1741-1813): L’ épreuve villageoise.

Description: First performed before Marie Antoinette at Versailles, this was one of Grétry’s most popular works. For a century after its 1784 première it enjoyed huge acclaim across Europe and even travelled to the New World, where it captivated audiences in New York. Grétry was a master of eighteenth- century opéra comique and this crisp and lively farce centres on a clever farmer’s daughter and her two competing suitors. Employing divergent stylistic registers – finesse and naiveté, music reminiscent of popular song, and extended ensembles – Grétry fashioned a score of sophisticated wit and huge charm. Libretto and translation available on-line. Sophie Junker, Talise Trevigne (sopranos), Thomas Dolié (baritone), Francisco Fernández-Rueda (tenor), Opera Lafayette; Ryan Brown.