François Couperin

From Wind Repertory Project
François Couperin

Biography

François Couperin (10 November 1668, Paris – 11 September 1733, Paris) was a French Baroque composer, organist and harpsichordist.

François Couperin was born on November 11, 1668, in Paris, and was the most famous member of a distinguished musical family. He was the son of Charles Couperin, from whom he received his early instruction. Later, he studied with Jacques Denis Thomelin, organist of King's Chapel.

In 1685, Couperin became organist at St. Gervais and in 1693 assumed a similar position at the Royal Chapel, earning the title "Organist of the King." In 1701, he was made clavecinist of the King's court and organist of the chapel. In 1717, he was awarded the title "Chief of Music of the King's Chamber."

Couperin's works may be divided into three categories: those produced for the king, those written for the church, and those created for the general public. He acknowledged his debt to the Italian composer Corelli, having introduced Corelli's trio sonata form to France.


Works for Winds


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