Lully

Definition

Lully refers to Jean-Baptiste Lully, a prominent French composer and dancer of the 17th century, who significantly influenced the development of Baroque theatre and spectacle in Europe. His work was characterized by a blend of music, dance, and drama, exemplifying the grand theatrical style of the Baroque period. Lully's compositions laid the groundwork for the integration of music into theatrical performances, transforming the way stories were told on stage and enhancing the overall spectacle of the productions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jean-Baptiste Lully was born in 1632 in Florence, Italy, but moved to France where he became a key figure in establishing French opera.
2. He served as the composer for King Louis XIV's court and is often credited with creating the genre of tragédie en musique, which integrated music deeply into dramatic narratives.
3. Lully founded the Académie Royale de Musique in 1672, which became the official institution for opera in France and set standards for musical theater.
4. His unique style emphasized orchestration and rhythm, utilizing the 'French overture' format that became a hallmark of Baroque music.
5. Lully's influence extended beyond music to the overall theatrical experience, as he collaborated closely with playwrights to create works that combined various art forms seamlessly.

Review Questions

• How did Lully's approach to integrating music and dance transform theatrical performances during the Baroque period?
  • Lully's approach revolutionized theatrical performances by emphasizing the integration of music and dance as essential components of storytelling. His compositions allowed for a cohesive blend between these elements, elevating the emotional depth and visual spectacle of the plays. This holistic style not only captivated audiences but also set new standards for future theatrical productions, paving the way for the evolution of opera and musical theatre.
• Discuss the significance of Lully's establishment of the Académie Royale de Musique in shaping French opera.
  • The establishment of the Académie Royale de Musique was significant because it formalized opera as an art form in France, providing a structure for its production and performance. Under Lully's leadership, this institution helped to standardize operatic practices, fostering talent and promoting French musical identity. It also created a platform where composers could collaborate with playwrights, which allowed for richer narratives that combined music, drama, and dance.
• Evaluate Lully's lasting impact on both Baroque theatre and contemporary musical theatre forms.
  • Lully's lasting impact on Baroque theatre is evident in his innovative techniques that integrated music deeply into performance, a practice that continues to resonate in contemporary musical theatre. By establishing key elements like structured musical forms and collaborative storytelling between composers and playwrights, he laid the groundwork for modern musicals. This legacy reflects how musical theatre has evolved into a genre where music is not just an accompaniment but is integral to character development and narrative progression.

Related terms

Baroque Opera: A style of opera that emerged in the 17th century, characterized by elaborate musical compositions and dramatic storytelling, often incorporating grand staging and visual effects.

Tragedie en musique: A form of French opera that combined tragic themes with music and dance, pioneered by Lully, which became a staple of French theatrical tradition.

Comedie-ballet: A theatrical form that combines elements of comedy, ballet, and music, developed during the Baroque period and notably associated with Lully's collaborations with playwright Molière.