Marchand & Clerambault: Complete Harpsichord Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque harpsichord music with "Marchand & Clerambault: Complete Harpsichord Works," a meticulously crafted album that showcases the masterful compositions of Louis Marchand and Louis-Nicolas Clérambault. Released in 2015, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty of classical music, featuring a collection of pieces that span the genres of Baroque and Gregorian chant.

Louis Marchand, an organist, harpsichordist, and composer, was born in Lyons but later moved to Paris, where he entered the service of the King. His compositions, along with those of Clérambault, are brought to life by the talented harpsichordist Luca Oberti. The album includes a variety of pieces from Marchand's "Pièces de clavecin, premier livre" and "Pièces de clavecin, second livre," as well as suites in C Major and C Minor, each showcasing the intricate and elegant styles of the Baroque period.

The album features a total of 33 tracks, with a duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, providing a comprehensive exploration of the harpsichord works of Marchand and Clérambault. The pieces range from preludes and allemandes to courantes, sarabandes, and gigues, each offering a unique perspective on the composers' artistic vision. The album is released under the Stradivarius label, known for its high-quality classical recordings.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Marchand & Clerambault: Complete Harpsichord Works" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's detailed compositions and Luca Oberti's skillful performance make it a standout addition to any classical music collection.

May 8, 2015

2015 Stradivarius

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.