Logan Lopez Gonzalez (countertenor), Nicolò Balducci (countertenor), Orchestre de l'Opéra Royal, Stefan Plewniak

Vivaldi: Gloria e Imeneo, RV 687
Vivaldi: Concerto for strings No. 11, RV 150
Vivaldi: Cantata RV 679 'Che giova il sospirar'

In the autumn of 1725, as France celebrated the union of Louis XV and Marie Leszczynska, Vivaldi was entrusted with the composition of a serenata in honor of the young royal couple. This commission inspired a sumptuous work, Gloria e Imeneo, carried by two allegorical figures: Imeneo, god of marriage, and Gloria, the radiant embodiment of French majesty. In turn, these voices rise, echo each other, and gracefully contend in virtuosity before blending in a final duet. Logan Lopez Gonzalez and Nicolò Balducci lend their talent and sensitivity to these roles, exalting a piece that stands out for both its diplomatic finesse and its inspired brilliance—an enchantment offered to the French Court.

"Assertive harpsichord and shaded quick strings are engaging in Imeneo's "Tenero fanciulletto ardere', and Nicolò Balducci's singing has contoured fluency in a promise that little cupids will play in the hearts of the newlyweds ("Scherzeran sempre d'intorno festosetti')." - Gramophone Magazine, March 2026