Le secret de Monsieur Marais

Dive into the enchanting world of Baroque music with Marin Marais' "Le secret de Monsieur Marais," a captivating album released on April 10, 2020, under the Alpha Classics label. This exquisite collection showcases the mastery of Marin Marais, a renowned French composer and viol player of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The album spans a total of 67 minutes, featuring a blend of solo viola pieces and orchestral works, all reinterpreted with a fresh perspective.

Under the direction of Vittorio Ghielmi, known as the "Heifetz of Gamba," the Il Suonar Parlante Orchestra brings Marais' compositions to life with Luca Pianca on lute and theorbo. The tracklist includes a variety of pieces from Marais' "Pièces de viole" and operas such as "Alcione" and "Ariane et Bacchus." Each track offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Marais' musical genius, from the tempestuous "Tempeste" to the delicate "Les voix humaines."

This album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Baroque music, offering a blend of technical virtuosity and emotional depth. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Le secret de Monsieur Marais" promises a rewarding listening experience. Immerse yourself in the intricate melodies and harmonies of Marin Marais, and discover the timeless beauty of his compositions.

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.

Le secret de Monsieur Marais

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