Composer

:

Jean de Sainte-Colombe

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Jean de Sainte-Colombe was a French composer and viol player who lived during the Baroque period. He is best known for his collection of works for solo viol, titled "Pièces de viole seule, 153 pieces". The collection was composed over a period of several decades, from the mid-17th century to the early 18th century. The "Pièces de viole seule" is a monumental work, consisting of 153 pieces for solo viol. The collection is divided into seven books, each containing a number of suites and individual pieces. The first book was composed in 1689, and the final book was completed in 1701. The pieces in the collection are characterized by their expressive melodies, intricate harmonies, and virtuosic techniques. Sainte-Colombe was known for his use of unusual tunings and extended techniques, such as double-stopping and left-hand pizzicato. His music is also notable for its use of ornamentation, which adds a sense of improvisation and spontaneity to the performances. The "Pièces de viole seule" is considered to be one of the most important collections of solo viol music from the Baroque period. It was highly influential in the development of the viol as a solo instrument, and it continues to be studied and performed by viol players today. The premiere of the "Pièces de viole seule" is not known, as the collection was not published during Sainte-Colombe's lifetime. It was only after his death that his son, also a viol player, compiled the pieces into the seven books that are known today. The collection was first published in 1701, and it has since been reprinted and recorded numerous times.

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