François Couperin

Abstract

Couperin, François (fräNswä′ kōōpərăN′), 1668–1733, French harpsichordist and composer, called le Grand to distinguish him from the other musicians in his family. His harpsichord music, in its charm, delicacy, and graceful ornamentation, represents the culmination of French rococo. He published four books of harpsichord suites (1713–30), which generally consisted of short, highly ornamental pieces, with descriptive titles such as Les Abeilles, Les Papillons, La Voluptueuse, and Le Rossignol en amour. His style of harpsichord playing, formulated in L'Art de toucher de clavecin (1716), influenced the keyboard technique of Bach. Couperin also composed much religious and chamber music and works for the organ. He was organist (1685–1733) at St. Gervais, Paris, a position held by members of the Couperin family from c.1650 until 1826. In 1693, Couperin was chosen by Louis XIV as one of the organists of the royal chapel, and later he was made music master of the royal family and harpsichordis)