Composer

:

Jean de Sainte-Colombe

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Concerto

Average_duration

:

2:28

Jean de Sainte-Colombe was a French composer and viola da gamba player who lived during the Baroque period. He is known for his innovative compositions for the viola da gamba, which were highly regarded by his contemporaries and continue to be admired today. One of his most famous works is the Concert for 2 equal bass viols No. 59 Le Précipité. The Concert for 2 equal bass viols No. 59 Le Précipité was composed by Sainte-Colombe in the late 17th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1680 and 1700. The piece was premiered in France, likely in the court of Louis XIV, where Sainte-Colombe was a member of the royal orchestra. The Concert for 2 equal bass viols No. 59 Le Précipité is a three-movement work for two bass viols. The first movement is marked "Grave" and is characterized by a slow, mournful melody played by both viols in unison. The second movement is marked "Vivement" and is a lively dance in triple meter. The two viols play off each other, with one taking the lead while the other provides a rhythmic accompaniment. The final movement is marked "Grave" and returns to the mournful mood of the first movement. The two viols play a complex, intertwining melody that builds to a dramatic climax before fading away to a quiet conclusion. The Concert for 2 equal bass viols No. 59 Le Précipité is notable for its use of the bass viol, an instrument that was often relegated to a supporting role in Baroque music. Sainte-Colombe's composition showcases the instrument's rich, sonorous tone and demonstrates its potential as a solo instrument. The piece also features Sainte-Colombe's characteristic use of dissonance and chromaticism, which give the music a haunting, otherworldly quality. Overall, the Concert for 2 equal bass viols No. 59 Le Précipité is a masterpiece of Baroque music and a testament to Sainte-Colombe's skill as a composer and performer. Its innovative use of the bass viol and its haunting melodies continue to captivate audiences today.

More....