François Couperin – Suites Royales / Claire Gautrot, Marouan Mankar-Bennis

In my personal opinion, the two viol suites are the best music in Couperin’s works and probably the best music ever written for bass viol. At the same time, it is probably the most difficult work for players to play. This CD is a heartwarming construction of the two suites, with the “Troisième Concert Royal” in between. The Concert is preceded by “Les Charmes” from the 2nd Collection of clavecin pieces, and the Suite II is preceded by “La Régente Ou la Minerve” from the 3rd Collection of clavecin pieces, and the entire work is concluded by “Les Charmes” from the 2nd Collection of clavecin pieces. The entire work concludes with “Musette de choise, tendrement et musète de taverni” from the third book of clavecin pieces. In the concert and the last musette, the viols play the main melody or the counter-melody, and in the former, the clavecinist plays the basso continuos.

The first note of the performance by Claire Gautrot (viol) and Marouan Manker-benis (clavecin) left me with the impression that they are not ordinary musician. The pitch is completely controlled and the finest taste can be felt. Allemande, Courante, Gigue, Passacaille. Anyway, except for the Prelude and Sarabande, the tempos are fast, and the tempo rubato that is common in this music seems to have been consciously avoided. Yet, all the trills are played perfectly. It is a real outstanding technique. Also the basso continuo of the clavecin is well calculated in every detail, and the occasional acciaccatura interspersed with arpeggios is of the utmost effect. The CD gradually builds up to the climax of the second suite, “la Chemise-blanche”. The final Musette brings the listener to his or her senses. #baroque #couperin #片山俊幸