Giovanni Battista Lulli (1632-1687) was born in Florence, Italy, but made a name for himself in France–literally, “Jean-Baptiste Lully”–where he became the greatest and most influential French composer of the 17th century. His service to the French court–and his early acquiantance with the young Louis XIV–led to extraordinary opportunities for Lully as a composer, director, musician, dancer, singer, and actor.

View the clip from “Le Roi Danse,” located inside the discussion board folder. In this clip, we are introduced to Lully and the young king, who has not yet assumed the power of the throne. Watch this clip several times to become well acquainted with it. Then select one of the three research options to learn more of the history.

Research options: Choose one of the following:

1. Jean-Baptiste Lully
2. Louis XIV
3. French ballet

In your own words, present some of the information you have found that you think would interest your classmates. Cite your sources (e.g., Grove Music Online, Wikipedia). Make sure you know what has already been posted, so that you are presenting information that has not yet been posted on the board. Then address several of these questions for consideration.

Questions to consider: Does a film such as this bring to life what is, for us, a remote time and place in history? Does a depiction such as this help us appreciate the artistic significance of the era, as well as of the art of filmmaking? How strong is the association of music and dance? How important was dance in the court of Louis XIV? How influential was French ballet in the courts across Europe? Does the connection between music and dance remain important in our culture today? In what ways?