Marin Marais: Pièces de viole, Livre I

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of French Baroque music with Marin Marais' "Pièces de viole, Livre I," a meticulously crafted collection of suites for viola da gamba and continuo. This three-disc set, released on November 26, 2021, by Aparté, offers a comprehensive exploration of Marais' virtuosic compositions, performed by the esteemed Atsushi Sakai on the viola da gamba, accompanied by Marion Martineau and Christophe Rousset.

Marin Marais, a pivotal figure in the French Baroque era, was renowned not only for his exceptional skill on the viola da gamba but also for his prolific compositions and influential teachings. This album showcases his mastery, featuring a diverse array of pieces that highlight the instrument's expressive range and the composer's ingenious artistry. The suites within "Pièces de viole, Livre I" span various keys and moods, from the contemplative Préludes to the lively Gavottes and Menuets, providing a comprehensive overview of Marais' stylistic versatility.

The album's extensive duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes allows for an in-depth appreciation of Marais' musical genius. Each suite is performed with a keen attention to historical accuracy and expressive nuance, bringing the music to life with vivid clarity and depth. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this collection offers a captivating journey through the intricate and beautiful world of Marin Marais' compositions.

26 november 2021

2021 Little Tribeca

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.