Sainte-Colombe introduced a unique dance form called 'La Pianelle', which no other composer of his time used, and also referred to it as a playing style.
Composer Biography
Despite extensive research, the biography and origins of Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe, a 17th-century violist and composer, remain largely a mystery.
Interpretation
The performer, Ronald Martin Alonso, discovered Sainte-Colombe's music by chance in a Parisian music shop and was fascinated by its richness and improvisatory feel.
Composition History
The solo viola da gamba pieces by Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe on this album were written around 1690 and are part of the 'Tournus Manuscript'.
Performer Biography
Ronald Martin Alonso, the viola da gamba player, was born in Havana and began his early music career with the Ars Longa ensemble, performing Latin American baroque music.
Compositional Technique
Sainte-Colombe is credited with adding a low 7th string to the viola da gamba and using silver-wound strings, which allowed for faster passages in the instrument's lower register.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The album aims to create a dialogue between the music of Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe and contemporary composer Philippe Hersant, transporting listeners into their fantastical worlds.
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