Marin Marais

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque music with "Marin Marais - Le Manuscrit Retrouvé," a captivating album released on January 26, 2024, by L'encelade. This exquisite collection, performed by the talented Noémie Lenhof, showcases the mastery of Marin Marais, one of the most celebrated composers of the French Baroque era.

Spanning a concise yet impactful 56 minutes, the album features a selection of Marais' most revered works, including the hauntingly beautiful "Les Voix humaines" and the poignant "Tombeau pour Mr de Sainte-Colombe." Each piece is meticulously performed, highlighting the depth and richness of Marais' compositions.

The album opens with a series of pieces from the "Manuscrit Panmure," a collection of Marais' works that have been beautifully preserved and brought to life by Lenhof. From the intricate "Prelude" to the lively "Gigue," these pieces offer a glimpse into the composer's versatility and genius. The album also includes works from Marais' "Deuxième Livre de Pièces de Viole" and "Livre des pieces de clavessin de tous les tons naturels et transposéz," providing a comprehensive overview of his musical prowess.

Noémie Lenhof's performance is nothing short of extraordinary. Her technical skill and interpretive depth bring a fresh perspective to these classic pieces, making "Le Manuscrit Retrouvé" a standout addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enchanting listening experience.

"Marin Marais - Le Manuscrit Retrouvé" is not just an album; it is a testament to the enduring beauty of classical music and the timeless appeal of Marin Marais' compositions.

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.