The Centre de musique baroque de Versailles, the Orfeo Orchestra and the Purcell Choir, conducted
by György Vashegyi, have revived Jean-Baptiste Cardonne’s (1730–1792) lyrical tragedy, Omphale.
Straddling the tradition of Rameau and the new style of Grétry or Philidor’s opéra-comique, this
1769 opera is a remarkable piece of work. While the score gives prominence to dances and
choruses, it also contains highly expressive arias and duets.
Iphis is secretly in love with Omphale, Queen of Lydia. But his friend Alcide (Hercules) confides in
him that he is also in love with Omphale. However, Alcide’s love is torture for Omphale: she loves
Iphis. Despite Argine’s intrigues, Omphale prays to this god to drive Alcide and Argine away to save
Iphis. When Iphis appears, she finally reveals her love to him. Alcide, who has now arrived himself,
realizes who his rival is: he vacillates between tenderness and anger. But Jupiter brings him to his
senses, and in a sudden fit of self-denial, Alcide forgives the lovers and blesses their union.
The people celebrate both the generosity of this hero and the wedding of Omphale and Iphis with a
magnificent feast.
The performance is superb. György Vashegyi and his singers emphasize the dramatic and
emotional character of the arias and duets and give the dances an elegant and inspired touch.
The recording shows that Cardonne’s interpretation makes his charming, delightful, and
thoroughly sophisticated music seem fresh and relevant.
With her lyrical and highly sensitive voice, Chantal Santon Jeffery is an enchanting Omphale, torn
between her feelings and her duties. Reinoud Van Mechelen sings with no less commitment and
strength of character in the role of Iphis. He can express his love and pain in a moving way.
Judith van Wanroij is a magnificent Argine, and baritone Jérôme Boutillier sings Alcide with
perfectly prepared seriousness and devotion, ultimately full of humanity, sincerity, and above all
sensitivity.
The high standard of the choir and the Orfeo Orchestra round off the extremely positive impression
made by this important release. György Vashegyi has thus made a discovery of great value.