Claude Balbastre

Claude Balbastre, born in Dijon in 1724, was a renowned French composer, organist, harpsichordist, and fortepianist, celebrated for his contributions to the rich tradition of French keyboard music. Establishing himself in Paris during the 1750s, Balbastre's virtuosity and compositions earned him international acclaim, particularly as an organist. His musical legacy spans a diverse range of works for harpsichord, organ, and pianoforte, reflecting the elegance and sophistication of the ancien régime. Despite surviving the tumultuous French Revolution, Balbastre's later years were marked by poverty. His enduring pieces, such as those found in "Pieces de Clavecin, de l'Orgue et de Pianoforte," continue to captivate audiences with their timeless beauty and technical mastery. Balbastre's music invites listeners to explore the opulence and refinement of 18th-century French music, making him a pivotal figure in the Baroque and Classical periods.