Couperin's Books 2, 3, and 4 for the harpsichord define the new musical rococo style, paralleling the work of French painters Antoine Watteau and Maurice Quentin La Tour.
Composer Biography
François Couperin was known as 'Le Grand' during his lifetime, a title justified by the impressive stature of his allemandes.
Performer Biography
Andrew Appel, the harpsichordist on this album, is the Artistic Director of the Four Nations Ensemble and has performed as a soloist at major festivals and halls worldwide.
Recording & Production
The harpsichord used for this recording is a 1990 copy by Frank Rutkowski and Robert Robinette of a 1648 Johannes Ruckers instrument, enlarged in the late 17th century.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Couperin, more than any other composer, believed in the expressive capabilities of the harpsichord, demanding great grace and control from his players.
Compositional Technique
Unlike other harpsichord composers of his time, François Couperin's Pièces de clavecin (harpsichord pieces) open not with a prelude, but with a monumental Allemande Grave.
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