[François Couperin] Introducing famous and popular pieces by the composer who loved the harpsichord
François Couperin, a French composer of the Baroque era.
He grew up in the illustrious musical Couperin family and became the most famous member of his lineage.
Among French musicians he was a unique talent; it is said that the famous German composer Brahms—despite his strong dislike of French music—showed considerable interest in Couperin’s works.
In this article, we introduce some of François Couperin’s masterpieces and popular pieces.
Among his works, the Pièces de clavecin—over 200 pieces—hold a central place.
From these, we’ve selected some of the most renowned pieces, so please enjoy the elegant, evocative music played on the harpsichord.
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[François Couperin] Introducing masterpieces and popular pieces by the composer who loved the harpsichord (1–10)
Club-sun techniqueFrançois Couperin
A masterful book that fully conveys the harpsichord’s allure—that is The Art of Harpsichord Playing.
It includes eight preludes and one allemande, with detailed explanations of performance techniques and expression.
It goes beyond a mere technical manual, aiming to cultivate musical depth and the performer’s sensibility.
In particular, each prelude has its own key and character, helping players acquire a wide range of expressive techniques.
For example, No.
1 in C major has a bright, serene atmosphere suitable for fundamental practice, while No.
5 in A major is a more advanced piece featuring more complex rhythms and ornamentation.
If you’re interested in harpsichord performance—or even if you’re practicing piano or harpsichord—why not give it a try?
Harpsichord Pieces, Book III, Suite No. 14: No. 7 “The Bells of Cythera”François Couperin
An elegant melody that seems to carry the sound of bells from the Isle of Cythera, flowing quietly like water.
Evoking the place associated with Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, this piece seems to capture the very atmosphere of an 18th-century French court.
Its light, bell-like overlapping tones sound as if announcing lovers’ blissful moments.
Performed on the harpsichord with a delicate timbre, it lasts about 2 minutes and 20 seconds yet overflows with rich emotion.
A highly recommended piece for those who want to fully savor the charm of Couperin.
Sonata “Sultana”François Couperin
This quartet sonata, known as one of Couperin’s masterpieces, is performed by two violins, two bass viols, and continuo.
It consists of six movements, with slow movements and faster ones placed in alternation.
Influenced by the Orientalist tastes fashionable in late 17th-century Paris, it is said to have received the title “La Sultane” from its solemn character.
It is a superb work that beautifully fuses French and Italian musical styles, notable for its delicate textures, supple dance rhythms, and richly lyrical melodies.
It’s a must-listen not only for those interested in Baroque music, but also for anyone who loves chamber music.
[François Couperin] Introducing Famous and Popular Pieces by the Composer Who Loved the Harpsichord (11–20)
Tenebrae MonodyFrançois Couperin
A sacred piece set to the text of the Old Testament Book of Lamentations, it expresses grief over the destruction of Jerusalem.
It was composed to be performed during the Tenebrae service held at midnight over the three Holy Days before Easter.
The work is notable for its beautiful melodies featuring chromaticism and exquisite modulations.
Often sung by two sopranos, it begins with their voices clashing in dissonance and gradually resolving—a structure that deeply moves listeners.
With its serene, mystical musicality, it is sometimes hailed as the ultimate music of healing.
Highly recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for anyone seeking calm and tranquility.
Mount Parnassus, or An Ode to CorelliFrançois Couperin
A programmatic work in seven movements brimming with the charm of the harpsichord.
It portrays Corelli’s ascent of Mount Parnassus with music that is both graceful and passionate.
French delicacy and Italian brilliance blend exquisitely, yielding a supreme masterpiece that distills the essence of Baroque music.
It embodies Couperin’s ideal of “the union of tastes,” pursuing harmony between French and Italian musical styles.
Published in 1725, this work is recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for anyone who enjoys music with a narrative character.
Collection of Suites “Peoples of Various Countries” Suite No. 4 “The Piedmontese”François Couperin
A chamber work brimming with the allure of Baroque music, Les Nations.
Published in 1726, this collection is one of Couperin’s masterpieces, pursuing a fusion of French and Italian musical styles.
The fourth suite, themed on Piedmont, is a piece that strongly reflects the influence of Italian music.
It begins with a dignified introduction, followed by movements that fully showcase the splendor of Baroque music—such as a sonade with bright, radiant melodies and a rondeau notable for its beautifully song-like lines.
It is a highly recommended piece for those who wish to enjoy elegant and refined music.
From Harpsichord Pieces, Book IV, Suite No. 24François Couperin
Couperin’s “Pièces de clavecin.” This large-scale work spans four volumes, and the 24th suite, included in the fourth volume, was published in 1730.
It consists of eight pieces, each with a distinctive title.
With names like “The Great Lord,” “The Young Lord, Former Young Lord,” and “The Poisoned Lance,” the pieces seem to satirize the French court and society of the time or portray specific individuals and personalities.
Each piece has its own character and emotion, reflecting the composer’s delicate technique and expressive power.
It’s recommended not only for those interested in Baroque music but also for anyone who wants to enjoy the elegant timbre of the harpsichord.