Marin Marais: La Folia

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque music with "Marin Marais: La Folia," a captivating album that showcases the mastery of Marin Marais, one of the most renowned composers and performers of the viola da gamba. Released in 2016, this album features a series of variations on the famous "La Folia" theme, a melody that has captivated musicians and audiences for centuries.

Marais, known for his virtuosic skill and expressive compositions, presents nine exquisite variations on the "La Folia" theme, each one a testament to his genius. The album, recorded with meticulous attention to detail, offers a rich and immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricacies of Marais' compositional style and his profound understanding of the viola da gamba.

"Marin Marais: La Folia" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a journey through the Baroque era, a time of opulence and refinement. The album's nine tracks, each a variation on the "La Folia" theme, are performed with such skill and artistry that they transport you to the courts of Louis XIV, where Marais himself was a celebrated musician.

The album's duration of just nine minutes makes it a perfect introduction to the world of Baroque music, or a delightful addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Marin Marais: La Folia" is sure to enchant and inspire.

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.