Marin Marais Unaccompanied

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of the Baroque era with "Marin Marais Unaccompanied," a captivating collection of solo compositions performed by the virtuoso Shaun Ng. Released on March 21, 2021, this album showcases the genius of French composer Marin Marais, offering a rich tapestry of musical suites that highlight the depth and versatility of the viol.

Spanning nearly an hour, the album features 18 tracks that encapsulate the essence of Marais' compositional style. Each suite is a journey through the dance forms and musical idioms of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, with pieces ranging from the stately Preludes to the lively Gavottes and the intricate Chaconne. The album includes suites in D Minor, A Major, G Minor, and D Major, each offering a unique blend of moods and textures.

Shaun Ng's masterful performance brings these historical works to life, showcasing his technical prowess and deep understanding of the viol. The album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Marais' music, providing a window into the musical world of the Baroque period. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Marin Marais Unaccompanied" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.

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.