François Couperin 'le Grand' came from a musical family; his uncle and father were organists at St. Gervais in Paris, and he was groomed to succeed them.
Composition History
François Couperin's Concerts Royaux were published in 1714, months before King Louis XIV's death, but were likely composed years earlier.
Recording & Production
The harpsichord used in this recording was made by John Phillips in Berkeley in 1995, modeled after instruments by A. Ruckers and P. Taskin.
Historical Context
The Concerts Royaux are a musical reflection of King Louis XIV, who had enormous influence over the musical culture at his court.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Couperin's Concerts Royaux are a "love poem to the classic French style of the late 17th century," resisting early 18th-century modernity.
Interpretation
The recording uses a streamlined lineup of flute, harpsichord, and viola da gamba, with the harpsichord often taking solo sections.
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