A masterpiece by Jean-Philippe Rameau. Popular classical music.

Cyclops (one-eyed giant)Jean-Philippe Rameau

Mayako Sone, Rameau: Cyclopes – Mayako Sone “The Cyclops”

Cyclopes (also known as The Cyclops), from the harpsichord sonatas by Jean-Philippe Rameau—one of France’s illustrious Baroque composers—is among the most frequently performed and popular pieces in his oeuvre.

It is inspired by the one-eyed giants of Greek mythology, lower deities renowned for their masterful blacksmithing.

Like the Cyclopes’ craft, the piece is a fast-paced, technically demanding work that showcases the harpsichord’s full brilliance.

Harpsichord Suite (1706) Suite in AJean-Philippe Rameau

Rameau – Premier Livre de Pièces de Clavecin (1706) Suite in A minor

Jean-Philippe Rameau published harpsichord suites (in 1706, 1724, and 1728), and the Dutch musician Pieter-Jan Belder, who performs the 1706 Suite in A, is a master of numerous early instruments and an expert in Baroque music—an outstanding harpsichordist, organist, recorder player, and fortepianist.

With rich musical sensitivity and advanced technique, he draws a beautiful sound from the harpsichord across the full range from bass to treble, delivering a superb performance.

Harpsichord Suite 1724 (Suite in D)Jean-Philippe Rameau

19. J.P.Rameau – Les Cyclopes (Rondeau) – Pièces de Clavecin (Scott Ross)

This masterpiece, composed for the harpsichord by a baroque master renowned as an iconic figure of France, is distinguished by its graceful, emotive melodies, intricate rhythms, and rich harmonies.

Each movement vividly depicts different scenes and emotions.

For example, in the movement “The Whirlwind,” the fierce motion of the wind is conveyed through the music, drawing listeners into the work’s world.

Published in 1724, the piece is also famous as a challenging work that tests a harpsichordist’s skill.

It is highly recommended for those who wish to savor the allure of Baroque music and enjoy the delicate expression of emotion through sound.

PygmalionJean-Philippe Rameau

J. Rameau – Opera «Pigmalion» | Hervé Niquet Le Concert Spirituel Ensemble

Jean-Philippe Rameau turned a story about a king from Greek mythology into a short, one-act opera with ballet, the acte de ballet.

Pygmalion, the king of Cyprus, carves a statue of his ideal woman, Galatea, falls in love with the sculpture, and becomes so besotted that he cannot leave her side and wastes away, nearly dying.

Moved by pity, Aphrodite breathes life into the statue, and Pygmalion marries Galatea, now human—this is the Greek myth.

Rameau’s superb compositional skill and the tale of Pygmalion (premiered in 1748) blend brilliantly into a wonderful work.

Incidentally, the “Pygmalion” in the Pygmalion effect also derives from the name of this mythic king.

As a short opera with ballet, it’s very easy to listen to.

Hall of Glory (Le temple de la Gloire).Jean-Philippe Rameau

Rameau – Le Temple de la Gloire

It is a masterpiece of opera-ballet composed for the French royal court and nobility.

Lavish, refined music merges with opulent staging, offering the full allure of Baroque art.

The story portrays ancient heroes striving toward the “Hall of Glory,” emphasizing the importance of goodness and justice.

In particular, through Trajan’s success, it conveys the message that virtue is essential to attaining glory.

Premiered at Versailles in November 1745, the work was created to celebrate victories in the War of the Austrian Succession.

Highly recommended for those interested in Baroque music and opera-ballet, or for anyone who wishes to experience historical context through music.

Opera ‘Les Boréades’ OvertureJean-Philippe Rameau

Rameau: Suite Les Boréades, RCT 31 – 1. Ouverture

The overture to the opera Les Boréades is a masterpiece packed with the allure of French Baroque music.

Its grand and majestic sound sets the tone for a mythic tale.

Depicting love and fate, and the relationships between gods and humans, the work is distinguished by its meticulous arrangement and innovative orchestration.

Although composed in 1763, it remained unnoticed until 1964—a fascinating detail in its history.

It’s recommended not only for those interested in Baroque music but also for anyone who enjoys dramatic soundscapes.

A gem that lets you fully immerse yourself in Rameau’s musical world.

ZoroasterJean-Philippe Rameau

Rameau – Zoroastre

One of Rameau’s masterful operas from his peak period, Zoroastre (premiered in 1749), is a work woven with refined, top-quality harmonies—so polished that one could hardly wish for more in French Baroque opera—depicting its drama with vivid color and intensity.