Leclair initially trained as a lacemaker, like his father, but also pursued dance and violin, even working as a leading dancer and maître de ballet at the Opéra de Lyon.
Interpretation
For this recording, all instrumentalists except the soloist use clip-in bow frogs and mostly plain gut strings, aiming for a roughened, darker orchestral sound.
Composer Biography
Leclair was found stabbed to death in his home in 1764 in a disreputable neighborhood of Paris, and the crime was never officially solved.
Interpretation
The recording uses a tuning pitch of A = 408 Hz, reflecting the historical flexibility of French pitch during the 18th century, which varied significantly.
Composer Biography
Jean-Marie Leclair, the composer, was the eldest of seven children and was later called 'l'Ainé' (the Elder) to distinguish him from a younger brother with the same name.
Composer Biography
Leclair's second wife, Louise-Catherine Roussel, was a music engraver who meticulously engraved all his works, resulting in some of the most splendid editions of the period.
Compositional Technique
Leclair's violin technique was so advanced that he used his left thumb as a fifth finger and was known for his 'netteté,' a combination of impeccable technique and musical perfection.
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