Daquin and the French Noel

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French Baroque music with "Daquin and the French Noel," a captivating collection of organ works by the renowned Louis-Claude Daquin. Born into a family of Italian origins, Daquin lived and composed during the reign of Louis XIV, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of France. This album, released in 1998, features the complete organ works of Daquin, performed masterfully by Robert F. Bates. The album spans a duration of one hour and four minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical compositions that showcase Daquin's virtuosity and innovation.

The tracklist includes a variety of pieces, such as "Pièces de clavecin, Suite No. 1: III. Musette en rondeau" and a series of Noël compositions from "Livre de Noëls, Op. 2." Each piece is meticulously performed, highlighting the intricate details and technical brilliance of Daquin's compositions. The album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Louis-Claude Daquin, providing a glimpse into the musical genius of the Baroque era.

Recorded on the multi-temperament Fisk organ at Stanford Memorial Church, this album offers a high-quality listening experience that captures the essence of Daquin's music. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful organ music, "Daquin and the French Noel" is an album that will delight and inspire. The album was released on the Loft label and is available in CD format.

January 1, 1998

1998 Loft

About Louis-Claude Daquin

Louis-Claude Daquin, a virtuoso organist and harpsichordist, was a prominent French composer of the Baroque and Galant eras. Born in Paris in 1694, Daquin's musical prowess was evident from a young age, honing his skills under the tutelage of his godmother, Élizabeth-Claude Jacquet de la Guerre. Throughout his nearly eight-decade life, Daquin composed a variety of choral, orchestral, and keyboard works, although only a few have survived to the present day. His most renowned compositions include the enchanting 'Le Coucou,' a rondo for harpsichord, and the collection of harpsichord suites published in 1735. Daquin's musical legacy continues to captivate audiences with its intricate melodies and technical brilliance, showcasing his mastery of the keyboard and his enduring impact on French Baroque music.