Marais: Pièces de Viole, Livre II

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of French Baroque music with Marin Marais' "Pièces de Viole, Livre II," a captivating collection of exquisite compositions performed by Jerome Hantai, Pierre Hantai, and Alix Verzier. Released in 2018, this album is a testament to Marin Marais' mastery of the viola da gamba, an instrument he played with unparalleled skill for King Louis XIV.

The album features a selection of suites and individual pieces from Marais' second book of viol music, composed in 1701. With a duration of over an hour, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Marais' compositional genius, showcasing his ability to blend technical virtuosity with profound expressiveness. The tracklist includes a variety of dance-inspired movements, such as sarabandes, gigues, and chaconnes, as well as reflective preludes and intricate fugues. Notable pieces include the "Tombeau de Mr. De Chambonnières," a tribute to one of Marais' predecessors, and the lively "Fugue gaye."

Marin Marais, born in 1656, was not only a prolific composer but also a renowned performer and teacher. His music, characterized by its melodic inventiveness and harmonic richness, has left an indelible mark on the Baroque repertoire. This album, recorded with meticulous attention to historical performance practices, provides a unique opportunity to experience Marais' music as it might have sounded in his own time.

The performances by Jerome Hantai, Pierre Hantai, and Alix Verzier are marked by their sensitivity and technical brilliance, bringing out the full range of colors and nuances in Marais' compositions. The album, released by Centaur Records, Inc., is a valuable addition to any classical music collection, offering a deep dive into the world of French Baroque music and the genius of Marin Marais.

18 mei 2018

2018 Centaur Records, Inc.

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.