The Travels of Orpheus

Between Normandy & Flanders 1590-1620…

Around 1600, being compared to Orpheus distinguishes several musicians recognized for the excellence of their works. This program highlights the circulation of artists and their compositions between Normandy and Flanders.
Despite the wars affecting the Netherlands under Spanish rule, musicians and their repertoires are widely disseminated.

The organist and composer Jehan Titelouze thus leaves Saint-Omer to settle permanently in Rouen. For his part, Roland de Lassus, born in Mons, published notably in Antwerp and active throughout Europe, embodies the peak of Franco-Flemish polyphony. Both compose on the Marian hymn Ave Maris Stella, using alternatim, which alternates vocal formations.

The cathedral of Rouen preserves several collections of Lassus, perfectly suited to its Choir. Their assembly illustrates the mobility of works and musicians during this period.
The spread of music printing and the movements of artists facilitate these exchanges, accompanying the gradual transition from the Renaissance to the Baroque.

The works of Lassus, Titelouze, Pevernage, and other “new Orpheuses” thus interact between Normandy and Northern Europe, testifying to the vibrant creation of music.

The ensemble Les Meslanges performs this repertoire with a mix of voices, cornets, sacqueboutes, serpent, and dulciane, revealing the golden age of polyphony. Under the direction of Thomas Van Essen and Volny Hostiou, the ensemble stands out for its original approach to the French repertoire of the 17th century.

Distribution: 7 singers, 7 instrumentalists (cornets, sacqueboutes, dulciane, serpent, ...). Musical direction: Thomas Van Essen and Volny Hostiou.

Practical Information:
All audiences
Duration: 1h30
Paid according to categories

Info & reservations

Cooperation France / Flanders
Les Meslanges benefit from the support of the Ministry of Culture (DRAC Normandy), the Normandy Region, the Department of Seine-Maritime, and the City of Rouen. The ensemble is a member of FEVIS, Scène Ensemble, and the employers' groups Solstice and Oscar.

Photo credit: the travels of Orpheus©jeff lescene