Composer

:

Marin Marais

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

March

Publication Date

:

1725

Average_duration

:

3:23

Marin Marais was a French composer and viol player who lived from 1656 to 1728. He was a prominent figure in the French Baroque music scene and was known for his compositions for the viol. One of his most famous works is the Marche persane dite La Savigny in E minor, which is part of his Pièces de viole, Book V, No. 102. The Marche persane dite La Savigny was composed in the late 17th century and was first performed in Paris in 1701. It is a piece for solo viol and is characterized by its exotic and oriental flavor. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Gracieusement" and is in E minor. It begins with a slow, mournful melody played on the viol. The melody is then repeated with variations, becoming more complex and ornamented as it progresses. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played with a sense of resignation. The second movement is marked "Gaiement" and is in E major. It is a lively dance, with a fast tempo and a playful melody. The viol plays a series of rapid arpeggios and trills, creating a sense of excitement and energy. The movement ends with a flourish, as the viol plays a series of ascending notes. The third movement is marked "Légèrement" and is in E minor. It is a gentle, flowing melody, with a sense of melancholy. The viol plays a series of long, sustained notes, creating a sense of longing and nostalgia. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played with a sense of resignation. Overall, the Marche persane dite La Savigny is a beautiful and evocative piece of music. It showcases Marais' skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically challenging and emotionally expressive. The piece is a testament to the beauty and complexity of French Baroque music and remains a beloved work in the viol repertoire.

More....