Marais: Pièces favorites

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Marin Marais with his album "Pièces favorites," released on Ricercar. This collection, spanning a generous 76 minutes, showcases the virtuosity and expressive depth of Marais' compositions for the viola da gamba. The album is a meticulous selection of pieces from various books of his "Pièces de viole," each track a testament to his mastery of the instrument and his ability to evoke a range of emotions and atmospheres.

From the delicate and introspective "Prélude en harpégement" to the lively and rhythmic "Gigue la badine," Marais guides you through a diverse landscape of musical styles and moods. The album also includes the poignant "Tombeau pour Mr de Ste Colombe," a tribute to his mentor, and the enchanting "Les voix humaines," demonstrating Marais' ability to capture the essence of the human voice within his instrumental compositions.

Marais' "Pièces favorites" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it's a journey through the Baroque era, offering a glimpse into the refined and expressive world of 17th-century French music. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the viola da gamba, this album is a rewarding exploration of one of history's most influential and innovative composers.