Tombeau pour Marais le Cadet

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Marin Marais' "Tombeau pour Marais le Cadet," a masterful collection of suites that showcase the composer's virtuosity and the rich tapestry of Baroque music. Released on January 26, 2021, this album is a meticulous curation of pieces from Marais' Second and Fifth Books, performed with exquisite precision by Les Folies Consort under the direction of Leonardo Luckert.

Spanning a full hour, the album features 23 tracks that encompass a variety of dance movements and character pieces, each offering a unique glimpse into the musical landscape of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. From the stately grandeur of the Préludes to the lively rhythms of the Gavottes and Menuets, every piece is a testament to Marais' compositional genius and his deep understanding of the viola da gamba.

Highlights include the poignant "Tombeau pour Marais Le Cadet," a piece likely composed in honor of Marais himself, and the lively "Rondeau Le Badin," which showcases the playful and inventive spirit of the composer. The album also features notable movements such as "La Georgienne La Maupertuy" and "La Polonoise," each adding a distinct flavor to the collection.

Recorded with a keen ear for detail, this album captures the essence of Marais' music, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the world of Baroque music, "Tombeau pour Marais le Cadet" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the enduring legacy of one of the most influential composers of his time.

26 januari 2021

2021 DSP

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.