Louis Couperin

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French Baroque music with this comprehensive collection of works by Louis Couperin, a virtuoso claveciniste, organist, gambist, and composer. Born around 1626 in Chaumes-en-Brie, Couperin's legacy endures through his intricate and expressive compositions, which are beautifully rendered in this double-CD set. This album features all the pieces from the second part of the Bauyn Manuscript, offering a deep dive into Couperin's masterful suites and individual pieces, each showcasing his unique style and technical prowess.

Spanning nearly two hours, the album includes a variety of movements such as Préludes, Allemandes, Courantes, Sarabandes, and Gigues, each performed with remarkable precision and artistry by Christophe Rousset. Rousset, one of the most brilliant clavecinists of his generation, brings a depth of expressivity and rhythmic confidence to these introspective pieces, making this recording a standout in the genre.

The album opens with the Suite en fa majeur, featuring a graceful Prélude and a series of dances that highlight Couperin's compositional genius. Highlights include the bravura C-minor Gigue and the somber Tombeau de M. de Blancrocher, as well as the Pavanne en fa dièse mineur, which closes the collection with a poignant and reflective note.

This meticulously curated album is a testament to Louis Couperin's enduring influence and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the brilliance of one of France's most celebrated composers.

1 april 2010

2010 Aparté

About Louis Couperin

Louis Couperin, a French composer and musician of the Baroque era, was born around 1626 in Chaumes-en-Brie and passed away in Paris in 1661. A multifaceted talent, Couperin excelled as a harpsichordist, organist, and gambist, leaving behind a rich legacy of compositions that span various genres. His harpsichord works, including preludes, dances, and passacaglias, are celebrated for their poetic intensity and technical brilliance. Couperin's organ music, though less known, is equally captivating, showcasing his deep understanding of the instrument. Despite his early death, Couperin's music continues to enchant audiences with its delicate beauty and emotional depth, making him a standout figure in the Couperin dynasty of musicians. His works offer a journey through the refined and expressive world of French Baroque music, inviting listeners to appreciate the subtle nuances and rich harmonies that define his unique style.