Histoires d'un Ange

Dive into the enchanting world of Baroque music with "Histoires d'un Ange," a captivating album featuring the timeless compositions of Marin Marais, complemented by works from François Couperin, Jean-Philippe Rameau, and Robert de Visée. Released on November 29, 2019, under the Rubicon Classics label, this album spans a full hour of exquisite performances, showcasing the virtuosity of viola da gamba player Johanna Rose.

Johanna Rose, known for her exquisite touch and deep understanding of Baroque repertoire, brings to life the intricate and expressive pieces from Marais' "Pièces de viole." The album includes a selection of preludes, gavottes, and passacaglias that highlight the beauty and technical prowess of the viola da gamba. Alongside Marais' works, Rose includes pieces by Couperin, Rameau, and de Visée, creating a rich tapestry of French Baroque music.

The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Josep Maria Martí Duran on theorbo and Javier Núñez on harpsichord, who provide a lush and authentic accompaniment to Rose's playing. The meticulous attention to historical performance practices and the use of period instruments ensure an authentic and immersive listening experience.

"Histoires d'un Ange" is a celebration of the golden age of French Baroque music, offering listeners a chance to explore the delicate and expressive world of the viola da gamba. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises to delight and inspire with its beautiful melodies and masterful performances.

Marin Marais, born in Paris in 1656, was a virtuoso viol player and prolific composer whose music continues to captivate audiences today. Studying under the renowned Jean-Baptiste Lully and the master of the bass viol, Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe, Marais honed his skills to become one of the most celebrated musicians of his time. His compositions, which include five books of Pièces de viole and four operas, are a testament to his mastery of the viol and his innovative approach to music. Marais's career flourished at the royal court of Versailles, where he was appointed as a court musician in 1676 and later became the conductor of the Paris Opera. His works, characterized by their expressive and often programmatic nature, have left an indelible mark on the Baroque era, making him a central figure in the French school of bass-viol composers and performers. Beyond his musical prowess, Marais's personal life was equally vibrant, fathering 19 children and entertaining the French royal family with his enchanting compositions.