Pour La Violle Et Le Théorbe

Released in the early 2000s under the Deutsche Harmonia Mundi label, this recording showcases the sophisticated musical partnership between gambist Hille Perl and lutenist Lee Santana. The album focuses on the works of Marin Marais, a preeminent composer for the viola da gamba during the reign of Louis XIV. By pairing the deep, expressive resonance of the viol with the intricate plucking of the theorbo, the performers intended to revitalize the intimate courtly atmosphere of the French Baroque era.

The album was crafted to highlight the dialogue between two historically informed instruments, emphasizing both technical virtuosity and emotional restraint. Hille Perl, already a celebrated interpreter of Marais's repertoire, collaborated with Lee Santana to arrange these pieces in a way that balances scholarly precision with accessible, lyrical performance. Upon its release, the recording was well-regarded by critics for its clarity, authentic period tone, and the seamless rapport between the two musicians.