Album insights
François Couperin "le Grand" hailed from a unique musical dynasty in France, rivaling only the Bach family. For 173 years spanning from 1653 to 1826, members of the Couperin family held the position of organist at the Saint-Gervais Church in Paris. The family's musical legacy began with his great-grandfather, Mathurin Couperin, who cultivated land in Brie near Beauvoir and was known as a merchant, agent, master instrumentalist, and music teacher. Two of his three children were musically inclined. The youngest son, Charles Couperin "l'Ancien," owned numerous vineyards in Chaumes and was skilled in playing various instruments including the oboe and organ. His eight children included three sons who became professional musicians, elevating the family's status from craftsmen and farmers to court musicians, as detailed in Titon du Tillet's "Le Parnasse François." The story of the three Couperin brothers playing the violin in Chaumes, near the Chambonnières region, and serenading the Sieur de Chambonnières at his castle exemplifies their musical prowess. Louis Couperin, praised by Chambonnières, was introduced to Paris society where he thrived.
Composer Jacques Champion de Chambonnières, an organist and harpsichordist of the Chambre du Roi, extended the invitation to Louis to join him in Paris. Louis later became the first Couperin to serve as organist at Saint-Gervais, succeeding his brother Charles who followed in their family's musical tradition. Little is known of Charles's life, but he likely performed at Lully's court ballets in 1659. François Couperin was born when Charles's wife, Marie Guérin, gave birth to their son on November 10, 1668. François lost his father at the age of 11 and inherited the role of organist, continued his musical training, and under the guidance of Jacques Thomelin, organist of Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie, he unofficially played at Saint-Gervais.
François married Marie-Anne Ansault in 1689, and they had four children. François rose to prominence, becoming one of the court organists, later awarded knighthood, and eventually became the King's harpsichordist before passing the role to his daughter in 1730. Battling declining health for over 20 years, François handed over his Saint-Gervais post to cousin Nicolas seven years prior to his passing in 1733.
Regarding his music, François Couperin showcased impressive maturity in his early works, blending techniques from his predecessors and embracing Italian influences, shaping his unique style. He composed an extensive collection of harpsichord pieces displaying vitality and lyricism, reflecting the dance-centric cultural norms of his time. Couperin's imaginative titles and intricate ornamentation set his compositions apart, emphasizing expression and adherence to performance guidelines. His impact on musical traditions and performance practices remains a subject of admiration and study.
François Couperin's works present a captivating blend of French elegance and Italian influences, embodying the artistic and societal norms of the Baroque era. Through his harpsichord compositions, Couperin deftly captured the spirit of courtly dances, interpreting sentiments with exquisite ornamentation and precision. His innovative titles and meticulous markings reveal a composer attuned to musical expression and nuances, enriching the listener's experience.
This musical journey through Couperin's works celebrates his legacy, showcasing the richness of his compositions and the enduring influence of his innovative approach to Baroque music.