Voix humaines. Marais: Pièces inédites pour flûte

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque music with "Voix humaines. Marais: Pièces inédites pour flûte," a captivating collection of previously unheard flute pieces by the renowned French composer Marin Marais. Released on March 21, 2025, via Alpha Classics, this album spans a generous 70 minutes and features 29 tracks, each a testament to Marais' mastery of the Baroque suite.

The album showcases a variety of pieces, including suites in different keys and tempos, each offering a unique blend of historical charm and musical sophistication. From the lively "La Polonoise" to the graceful "Sarabande," and the energetic "Gigue," every track is a journey through the rich tapestry of Baroque composition. The album also includes notable pieces such as "Les Voix humaines" and "La guitare," which highlight Marais' versatility and innovation.

Performed by the esteemed ensemble Les Musiciens de Saint-Julien, with François Lazarevitch on flute, the album benefits from the expertise of Lucile Boulanger and Éric Bellocq, ensuring an authentic and refined interpretation of Marais' works. This recording is a celebration of the composer's genius, offering both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to Baroque music a chance to explore the intricate beauty of Marais' flute compositions.

21 maart 2025

2025 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France

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.