Jeux d'harmonie

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque music with "Jeux d'Harmonie," a captivating album featuring the timeless compositions of Marin Marais, masterfully performed by Alberto Rasi. Released in 2017 on the Stradivarius label, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty of the viola da gamba, an instrument that Marais elevated to new heights of expression.

"Jeux d'Harmonie" showcases a selection of pieces from Marais' renowned "Pièces de viole," spanning across five books and offering a rich tapestry of musical styles and moods. From the introspective Prelude of Suite No. 1 in D Minor to the lively Chaconne en rondeau and the evocative Sarabande à l'espagnol, each track is a masterclass in Baroque composition and performance.

Alberto Rasi's playing is both technically virtuosic and deeply expressive, bringing out the nuanced harmonies and intricate melodies that characterize Marais' work. The album's duration of just over an hour provides a satisfying journey through the composer's oeuvre, making it an ideal choice for both casual listeners and Baroque enthusiasts.

Whether you're a seasoned fan of Marin Marais or a newcomer to the world of the viola da gamba, "Jeux d'Harmonie" offers a compelling introduction to the composer's genius and the instrument's unique sonorities. With its elegant packaging and high-quality recording, this album is a delightful addition to any music collection.

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.

Jeux d'harmonie

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About Marin Marais

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