He quickly gained promotion through the ranks, emerging as the court concertmaster (maître de concert), taking care of ballet and dance.
The key elements appear to be that Volumier, sensing the risk of trouble ahead, organised a keyboard (probably clavier) contest between Marchand and his friend Bach.
However, Marchand became nervous at the prospect and early on the morning of the day scheduled for the contest left Dresden, never to return.
In the interests of balance it is worth adding that Adlung also wrote of Bach's respect for Marchand's abilities as a keyboard player and composer.
It was while attending the royal court in Warsaw that Volumier fell ill, and after he returned to Dresden Pisendel had frequently to be called upon to deputise for him.