Marais studied viola da gamba with Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe, who, after six months, told Marais he had nothing left to teach him, fearing his pupil would surpass him.
Cultural Impact
Marais' 1689 publication of basso continuo parts marked a radical shift in French viola da gamba style, making accompaniment standard for all future works.
Composition History
Three years later, in 1689, Marais published the "Basse-continuës des Pièces à une et à deux violes," adding basso continuo accompaniment to his earlier works.
Composer Biography
Marin Marais, the composer, was born into a humble family (his father was a shoemaker) but became an "Ordinaire de la Chambre du Roi" at just 23 years old.
Critical Reception
Marais' first book of "Pièces" was an immediate success, with Jean Rousseau noting its remarkable circulation by stating, "...and they are played by everybody..."
Composition History
Marais' first book of "Pièces à une et à deux violes" (1686) was initially published without accompaniment, a common practice at the time for French viola da gamba music.
Historical Context
The period around 1685 saw a dramatic increase in published gamba music, reflecting growing enthusiasm among performers and audiences.
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