Composer

:

Marin Marais

Genre

:

Chamber

Publication Date

:

1711

Movement_count

:

12

Movement ....

Marin Marais, a French composer and viol player, composed the 'Suite for viola da gamba & continuo in C major' as part of his 'Pièces de viole, Book III' in 1711. The suite consists of 15 movements, each with its own unique character and style. The suite begins with a Prelude, a slow and stately introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the work. This is followed by a series of dances, including an Allemande, a Courante, a Sarabande, and a Gigue. Each of these dances has its own distinct rhythm and tempo, ranging from the lively and energetic Gigue to the slow and mournful Sarabande. In addition to the dances, the suite also includes several character pieces, such as the Plainte, a melancholy and introspective piece, and the Fantaisie, a free-form composition that showcases Marais' virtuosic playing and improvisational skills. Throughout the suite, Marais demonstrates his mastery of the viola da gamba, a stringed instrument that was popular in the Baroque era. He uses a variety of techniques, including intricate fingerings, double stops, and harmonics, to create a rich and complex sound that is both expressive and nuanced. Overall, the 'Suite for viola da gamba & continuo in C major' is a masterpiece of Baroque music, showcasing Marais' skill as both a composer and performer. Its combination of dance movements and character pieces, along with its virtuosic playing and intricate harmonies, make it a timeless work that continues to be admired and studied by musicians and music lovers alike.

More....