Louis Marchand: Oeuvres pour orgue et clavecin

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque music with Emmanuel Arakélian's meticulous interpretation of Louis Marchand's masterful compositions for organ and harpsichord. Released on October 18, 2024, via the esteemed Mirare label, "Louis Marchand: Oeuvres pour orgue et clavecin" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of 17th and 18th-century French music.

This album features a comprehensive selection of Marchand's works, including suites published in 1699 and 1703, as well as pieces from his second book and posthumous publications. The collection spans a variety of moods and styles, from the grandeur of the "Grand dialogue in C" to the delicate intricacies of the "Menuet" and the energetic "Gigue." Each piece is performed with a level of technical prowess and artistic sensitivity that brings Marchand's compositions to life in a fresh and engaging way.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes, this album offers a substantial and satisfying listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, Emmanuel Arakélian's renditions provide a deep and rewarding exploration of Marchand's musical genius. The album's 31 tracks showcase the full range of Marchand's compositional skills, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection.

October 18, 2024

2024 Mirare

About Louis Marchand

Louis Marchand, born in Lyon in 1669, was a French Baroque organist, harpsichordist, and composer, renowned for his virtuosity and flamboyant personality. Born into a family of organists, Marchand quickly rose to fame as a child prodigy, captivating audiences with his extraordinary talent. He served as an organist in numerous churches and even held the prestigious position of one of the four organistes du roy at the French court. Marchand's fiery temperament and arrogant demeanor often landed him in the midst of scandals, making him a controversial yet fascinating figure in the music scene. Despite his tumultuous personal life, his musical prowess earned him the admiration of King Louis XIV and the French public alike. Marchand's compositions, though few survive today, include notable works like the organ pieces "Grand dialogue" and "Fond d'orgue," which are celebrated as masterpieces of the French organ school. His life took a dramatic turn when he famously avoided a musical contest with Johann Sebastian Bach in Dresden, adding another layer of intrigue to his already legendary status. Marchand's legacy endures, not just for his musical genius, but also for the dramatic and captivating story of his life.