Marais: La gamme

Album Description

Dive into the rich and intricate world of Baroque music with Marin Marais' "La Gamme," a captivating album released on January 1, 2020, under the prestigious Château de Versailles Spectacles label. This 59-minute masterpiece showcases the virtuosity and compositional brilliance of Marin Marais, a renowned French composer and viol player of the 17th century.

The album is a journey through Marais' musical genius, featuring two main works: "La Gamme en forme de petit opéra" and "Sonate à la Marésienne." The former is a unique and innovative piece structured around the musical scale, with each movement named after a different note. This composition is a testament to Marais' creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of Baroque music. The latter is a sonata that demonstrates Marais' mastery of the viol and his skill in composing intricate and engaging pieces.

The album also includes "Sonnerie de Sainte Geneviève du Mont de Paris," a piece that adds a touch of historical significance to the collection. This work is a sonnerie, a type of French Baroque music often played on trumpets or other brass instruments, but here performed on the viol, showcasing Marais' versatility and innovation.

Performers such as Les Timbres, Myriam Rignol, Yoko Kawakubo, and Julien Wolfs bring these compositions to life with their exceptional skill and deep understanding of Baroque music. Their performances are a testament to the enduring appeal of Marais' music and the timeless beauty of the Baroque era.

"La Gamme" is not just a collection of Marais' works; it's a celebration of his musical legacy. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The intricate compositions, the skillful performances, and the historical significance of the pieces make this album a standout in the world of Baroque music.

1 januari 2020

2022 Château de Versailles Spectacles

2020 Château de Versailles Spectacles

About Marin Marais

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.