Marais: Deuxième Livre de Pièces de Viole

Album Description

Dive into the rich, expressive world of Marin Marais with his "Deuxième Livre de Pièces de Viole," a monumental collection of 142 compositions performed by François Joubert-Caillet and L'Achéron. Released on October 11, 2019, this five-disc set is a comprehensive exploration of Marais' mastery of the viola da gamba, showcasing his innovative techniques and profound musical insights.

Spanning over six hours, this album presents eight suites in various keys, each comprising a series of dance-inspired movements and preludes. From the intricate "Prélude" to the lively "Gigue" and the elegant "Menuet," every piece is a testament to Marais' compositional genius and his deep understanding of the viola da gamba's expressive capabilities.

Marin Marais, a prolific French composer and gambist, was renowned for his pedagogical approach and his dedication to the viola da gamba. This album, recorded by the esteemed ensemble L'Achéron under the direction of François Joubert-Caillet, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the full breadth of Marais' second book of viola da gamba pieces. The performances are marked by their technical precision, musical sensitivity, and historical authenticity, providing a captivating journey through the Baroque era's rich musical landscape.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this collection promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. The meticulous attention to detail in both the performances and the recording ensures that every nuance of Marais' compositions is brought to life, offering a vivid and immersive exploration of his musical legacy.

October 11, 2019

2019 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.