Marais 1689

Album Description

Dive into the rich and expressive world of Marin Marais with "Marais 1689," a captivating album that showcases the masterful compositions of one of France's most renowned viola da gamba players from the late 17th century. This album, released on January 29, 2016, under the Glossa label, features a meticulously curated selection of pieces from Marais' "Pièces de viole, Book 1," performed by the esteemed Paolo Pandolfo alongside Amélie Chemin, Thomas Boysen, and Markus Hünninger.

Marais, a protégé of Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe and Jean-Baptiste Lully, was a virtuoso of the viola da gamba, and his compositions reflect the elegance and sophistication of the French Baroque period. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, encompassing 21 tracks that include suites in G Major and D Minor, as well as individual pieces like "Tombeau de M. Meliton" and "Rondeau in G Minor."

Paolo Pandolfo's performance is marked by his meticulousness, sensitivity, and technical prowess, bringing out the full capacity of the viola da gamba. Each piece is rendered with a depth of expression that highlights the instrument's unique timbre and Marais' compositional genius. From the lively "Gavotte en rondeau" to the contemplative "Sarabande," the album offers a comprehensive exploration of Marais' musical style and his enduring influence on Baroque music.

"Marais 1689" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Marin Marais' compositions and the skill of the performers who bring them to life. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.

January 29, 2016

2016 Glossa

About Marin Marais

Marin Marais, born in Paris in 1656, was a virtuoso viol player and a prolific composer whose works have left an indelible mark on the Baroque music landscape. His journey began under the tutelage of the renowned Jean-Baptiste Lully and the enigmatic Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe, from whom he absorbed the nuances of the viol. Marais' career flourished at the royal court of Versailles, where he was appointed as a court musician in 1676 and later as ordinaire de la chambre du roy pour la viole in 1679, a position he held until 1725.

Marais' compositions are a testament to his mastery of the viol, with five books of Pièces de viole that showcase his technical prowess and emotional depth. Beyond his viol works, he also composed four operas and various instrumental and vocal pieces, demonstrating his versatility as a composer. His music is notable for its balance between the harmonic idioms of the past and the innovations of his time, making it as relevant today as it was in the 17th and 18th centuries. Marais' legacy extends beyond the concert hall, with his life and music gaining wider recognition through cinematic portrayals, further cementing his status as a central figure in the French school of viol playing.