Marin Marais: Pièces de viole

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French Baroque music with Marin Marais' "Pièces de viole," a captivating collection of works that showcase the composer's unparalleled mastery of the viola da gamba. Released on January 12, 2018, by Mirare, this album is a testament to Marais' superior grace, elegance, and spirit, which together create the quintessential charm of French Baroque music.

Marin Marais, born in 1656, was not only a renowned composer but also a skilled viol player who served King Louis XIV. His compositions, nearly 600 in total, are celebrated for their technical brilliance and expressive depth. This album features a selection of Marais' most exquisite pieces, including works from his "Pièces de viole" and "Pièces à une et à trois violes" collections, offering a rich tapestry of preludes, rondes, gavottes, and other dance-inspired movements.

The album spans a duration of one hour and three minutes, providing an extensive journey through Marais' musical genius. Highlights include the intricate "Les Barricades Mystérieuse" from the "Second livre de pièces de clavecin," the lively "Le Jeu du Volant" from the "Pièces de viole, Cinquième livre, Suite No. 6," and the delicate "La Rêveuse" from the "Pièces à une et à trois violes, Quatrième livre." Each piece is performed with meticulous attention to detail, bringing Marais' compositions to life in a way that is both authentic and captivating.

"Pièces de viole" is not just a collection of Marais' works; it is a celebration of his legacy and a window into the opulent world of French Baroque music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of classical music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless beauty of Marin Marais' compositions.

12 januari 2018

2017 Mirare

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.