Marin Marais Unaccompanied

"Marin Marais Unaccompanied" is a captivating journey into the world of Baroque music, presented by the talented pianist Shaun Ng. Released on March 21, 2021, under the label A415 Music, this album is a testament to Ng's virtuosity and his deep understanding of the Baroque repertoire. The album features a collection of suites by the renowned French composer Marin Marais, performed with remarkable skill and sensitivity.

Spanning 57 minutes, the album showcases a variety of dance movements, including preludes, allemandes, sarabandes, and gigues, each one meticulously crafted and beautifully executed. Ng's performance is marked by a keen sense of rhythm and a deep respect for the historical context of the music. The album opens with the Suite in D Minor, a powerful and dramatic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The Suite in A Major, with its lively and energetic movements, provides a stark contrast to the more introspective and melancholic Suite in G Minor.

Ng's interpretation of Marin Marais' music is both authentic and innovative, drawing on his extensive experience as a pianist and his deep knowledge of Baroque performance practice. The album is a testament to his ability to bring the music of the past to life in a way that is both historically informed and musically compelling. Whether you are a seasoned Baroque enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Marin Marais Unaccompanied" is sure to delight and inspire. The album is a beautiful addition to any classical music collection, offering a unique and engaging perspective on the music of 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.