The Sun King's Favourite
In the dazzling court of Louis XIV, music was an essential part of daily life - and for over 30 years one man was at its heart. In this special concert, we celebrate the 300th anniversary of Michel-Richard de Lalande, beloved by the Sun King, with three sensational pieces. From the heart-stopping tenderness of De profundis (Out of the depths) to the elegance of music ‘frequently demanded’ for royal suppers, we absolutely adore it - and you will too!
Lalande’s music remained popular in Paris for decades after his death, performed far more than any other composer in the pioneering “Concert Spirituel” series (1725-90). Come and find out why.
"A revelation" (BBC Music Magazine)
Programme includes:
Lalande De profundis clamavi
Lalande La grande pièce royale
Lalande Cantate Domino
Corelli Concerto grosso Op.6 no.8
Running time is approx. 2 hours including interval.
EX CATHEDRA Choir & Baroque Orchestra
Jeffrey Skidmore conductor
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Get in the mood by listening to excerpts from our recordings of French Baroque music:
- A French Baroque Diva
- Rameau - Règne amour
- Charpentier - Messe à quatre choeurs
- Lalande - Choral music of Versailles
How to book
£48 / £38 / £28 / £21 including per ticket commission
£15 - aged 18-30, not in full-time education
£8 - under 18s and students in full-time education
Book online or call the B:Music box office on 0121 780 3333
Ex Cathedra is an Associate Artist at Symphony Hall & Town Hall (B:Music venues)
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Getting there
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Access
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Jeffrey says
"French Baroque sacred music has been one of my passions since my unlikely introduction to the music of Michel-Richard de Lalande as an early teenage schoolboy in Bournville. With Ex Cathedra, an equally unlikely worldwide reputation has been established for performing this notoriously elusive but exquisite repertoire. We have recorded six award-winning CDs including a prestigious Gramophone Award with Carolyn Sampson.
"In 2026 we celebrate the 300th anniversary of the death of Lalande who without a shadow of doubt is one of the greatest composers of an era full of great composers. He was one of Louis XIV’s favourite composers, particularly of sacred music, so important to the melancholic king, and De Profundis was performed at The Sun King’s funeral in 1715 and at the first Concert Spirituel performed in the palace of the Tuileries Gardens in 1725. More music by Lalande was performed at this pioneering and influential concert series (1725 -1790) than by any other composer. The Grand Motet Cantata Domino was frequently top of the bill with its climactic haute-contre solo.
"This is a RARE opportunity to hear LIVE such extraordinarily lavish and sensational music. Not to be missed!"
