Rameau: Theorist and Revolutionary

Jean-Philippe Rameau wore two hats—theorist and composer—and excelled in both. His theoretical works, beginning with the Traité de l'harmonie (1722), revolutionized musical thought: - Established the principle of the fundamental bass - Codified chord inversions - Explained harmony as the basis of melody - Influenced music theory for centuries

As an opera composer, Rameau arrived late (age fifty) but transformed the genre:

Rameau's Operatic Innovations

"Hippolyte et Aricie" (1733) shocked audiences with its harmonic boldness and orchestral complexity. Lullistes (Lully's defenders) battled Ramistes (Rameau's supporters) in the first of many French musical controversies.

His innovations included: - Richer harmonies reflecting his theoretical knowledge - More prominent orchestra, sometimes overwhelming singers - Descriptive orchestration: earthquakes, storms, supernatural events - Complex choruses and dances integrated into the drama

Major works: - "Les Indes galantes" (1735): An opéra-ballet celebrating exotic locales - "Castor et Pollux" (1737): His most popular tragédie lyrique - "Les Boréades" (posthumous): Unperformed in his lifetime, rediscovered in the 20th century