Marin Marais: Folies d’Espagne & Pièces de viole

Album Details

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Baroque music with Marin Marais' "Folies d’Espagne & Pièces de viole." Released on September 29, 2017, under Paraty Productions, this album is a testament to the timeless artistry of Marin Marais, a renowned French composer and viol player of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The album spans a total of 62 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Marais' mastery of the viola da gamba.

The album is divided into two main suites: the Suite en Ré Majeur, Livre III, and the Suite en Sol Mineur, Livre V. Each suite is a journey through various dance movements, including Prélude, Fantaisie, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Gigue, Rondeau, and more. These pieces are not only technically demanding but also deeply expressive, reflecting the elegance and sophistication of the Baroque era.

In addition to the suites, the album features the "Couplets de Folies d'Espagne," a collection of variations on the popular "Follies of Spain" theme. These pieces are playful and virtuosic, demonstrating Marais' ability to blend technical brilliance with melodic charm.

Marin Marais' compositions are brought to life with meticulous attention to detail, capturing the essence of his unique style. The album is a must-listen for anyone interested in Baroque music, offering a glimpse into the musical landscape of Marais' time. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Folies d’Espagne & Pièces de viole" promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.

September 29, 2017

2016 Paraty

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.

Album Details

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About Marin Marais

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