Marais: Cinquième livre de pièces de viole

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the final masterpiece of the renowned French composer Marin Marais with his "Cinquième livre de pièces de viole." Released in 2023, this three-volume set is a testament to Marais' enduring legacy and his unparalleled skill as a composer and performer on the viola da gamba. Published in 1725, eight years after his previous collection, this album showcases Marais' evolution as an artist, featuring a blend of well-established pieces and innovative compositions that push the boundaries of the genre.

Spanning over 112 tracks and nearly four hours of music, this album is a comprehensive journey through Marais' musical genius. Each of the thirteen suites is a world unto itself, exploring a variety of dances, preludes, and character pieces that reflect the composer's deep understanding of the viola da gamba and his unique voice. From the elegant "Prélude" to the lively "Gigue" and the contemplative "Sarabande," every piece is a testament to Marais' ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and atmospheres.

François Joubert-Caillet and L'Achéron bring this monumental work to life with their exquisite performances, capturing the essence of Marais' music and transporting listeners to the opulent courts and salons of 18th-century France. The album is a treasure trove for both seasoned enthusiasts of early music and those new to the enchanting sounds of the viola da gamba. With its rich historical context and stunning musicality, "Cinquième livre de pièces de viole" is an essential addition to any classical music collection.

June 9, 2023

2023 Outhere

2023 outhere

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.