Marais: Suites à deux violes

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of Baroque music with "Marais: Suites à deux violes" by Marin Marais. This captivating album, released in 2015 under the Musica Ficta label, offers a rich collection of 19 tracks, spanning 54 minutes of pure musical elegance. Marin Marais, a renowned French composer and viol player of the 17th century, presents a masterful display of his compositional prowess through these suites, originally written for one or two viols and continuo.

The album features a blend of well-known and lesser-explored pieces, providing a fresh and intriguing listening experience. The suites are performed with remarkable finesse and expressiveness by the ensemble A Deux Violes Esgales, who bring out the intricate details and nuances of Marais' compositions. The tracks are organized into suites in various keys, each offering a unique blend of dance movements and character pieces.

From the graceful "Prélude" and the stately "Allemande" to the lively "Gavotte" and the reflective "Tombeau de Mr. Meliton," each piece showcases Marais' versatility and mastery of the Baroque style. The album also includes a transcription of "Les voix humaines" for archiluth by Thomas Dunford, adding an extra layer of depth and variety to the collection.

"Marais: Suites à deux violes" is a testament to Marin Marais' enduring legacy and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable experience.

18 september 2015

2015 Pavane Records

2015 Association A 2 Violes Esgales

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.