Jean-Baptiste Lully was a prominent French composer, instrumentalist, and dancer of the Baroque era. His influence extended beyond music, as he played a significant role in shaping French opera and court entertainment during the reign of Louis XIV.
Early Life and Career
Jean-Baptiste Lully was born Giovanni Battista Lulli on November 28, 1632, in Florence, Italy. At the age of twelve, he was taken to France by Roger de Lorraine, the Duke of Guise, as an Italian servant. In France, Lully’s musical talents were recognized, and he was educated in music and dance, becoming proficient in the violin.
Rise to Prominence
Lully’s talents caught the attention of King Louis XIV, who appointed him as the court composer in 1661. Lully’s association with the royal court marked the beginning of his illustrious career as a composer and director of court entertainment.
Collaboration with Molière
In the 1650s, Lully began working with the playwright Molière, composing incidental music for his theatrical productions. This collaboration was highly successful and produced several notable works, including the comedy-ballets “Le Mariage Forcé” (1664) and “Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme” (1670), which featured Lully’s music and Molière’s writing and acting.
Establishment of French Opera
Lully is best known for his contributions to the development of French opera. He collaborated with librettist Philippe Quinault, and together they created a new form of opera that combined music, drama, dance, and spectacle. Lully’s operas, such as “Cadmus et Hermione” (1673) and “Armide” (1686), played a crucial role in establishing French opera as a distinct genre.
Innovations in Musical Technique
Lully was innovative in his use of musical techniques, particularly in his orchestration and development of the French overture. He introduced the grand French overture, characterized by its majestic opening followed by a fast-paced section, which became a standard form in French Baroque music, often used by Bach and Handel.
Death
Lully’s life came to a tragic end when he accidentally struck his foot with a pointed staff while conducting a performance of his Te Deum in 1687. The wound become infected, and resulted in gangrene which led to his death. He had refused to have his leg amputated due to concerns about not being able to dance — a decision that cost him his life.
Legacy and Influence
Jean-Baptiste Lully’s influence on French music and culture was immense. He played a central role in the establishment of French opera and set the standard for court entertainment. His works continue to be celebrated for their elegance, innovation, and influence.