De Visée: Suites de danses

Immerse yourself in the intricate and elegant world of Baroque music with Robert de Visée's "De Visée: Suites de danses." This album, released on January 1, 1993, under Warner Classics, is a captivating collection of suites performed on the theorbo, a plucked string instrument that was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. De Visée, a renowned French composer and lutenist, showcases his mastery of the theorbo through these suites, each offering a unique blend of dance movements that were characteristic of the Baroque era.

The album spans a total of 57 minutes, featuring suites in various keys, including minor and major modes. Each suite is a journey through different dance forms such as préludes, allemandes, courantes, sarabandes, gigues, and more. Notable tracks include "La Montfermeil," a rondeau from the Suite No. 3 in E minor, and "La Royalle," an allemande from the Suite No. 7 in A minor. The Suite No. 10 in C minor includes a poignant tombeau, "La plainte," dedicated to the Mesdemoiselles de Visée.

De Visée's compositions are not only a testament to his virtuosity but also a window into the musical tastes and styles of his time. The suites are performed with precision and sensitivity, highlighting the expressive capabilities of the theorbo. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.