Badinages

Viola da gambist (Violoncellist)) Mélisande Corriveau and harpsichordist Eric Milnes reveal the richness of the bass viol in this new recording entirely devoted to French composer Marin Marais. Though Marin Marais worked for many years for the Académie Royale de Musique in France and composed four operas, his genius is linked above all with the bass viol. With its deep and somewhat husky voice, the bass viol offered a wide palette of colors and nuances. Critically acclaimed for her exceptional musical mastery, Mélisande Corriveau is a specialist in the interpretation of early music as a gambist, cellist and recorder virtuoso. “Mélisande Corriveau belongs to a new generation of players bringing formidable performing skills and knowledge of period practices. “ (Gramophone) Corriveau’s discography numbers over 50 titles on many labels. Her recent duo release with harpsichordist Eric Milnes, Pardessus de viole, was the recipient of many awards including the 2016 Opus Prize, CBC’s Top 10 best classical discs of the year, and Radio-Canada’s Classical CD of the Year. Together with Eric Milnes, she co-founded and co-directs Ensemble L’Harmonie des saisons, which was awarded the Juno Prize for their debut recording Las Ciudades de oro in 2016. Native New Yorker Eric Milnes has established an international reputation as conductor, harpsichordist and organist through his many performances fort the most distinguished festivals and presenters across North America, Europe, South America and Asia. As a director of ensembles such as L’Harmonie des saisons, Montreal Baroque, The Portland Baroque Orchestra, The New York Collegium, New York Baroque, Seattle Baroque Orchestra, Les Boréades and Les Délices he has recorded over fifty CD’s and led countless performances, radio broadcasts and television productions.