François Couperin Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Harpsichord Pieces, Book II, Suite No. 6, No. 1: “The Harvesters”François Couperin8rank/position

Couperin, François: Pièces de clavecin, Book II, Suite No. 6, Les moissonneurs (The Harvesters), No. 6, pf. Seki, Seiko

François Couperin, known as a representative composer of French Baroque music.

“The Harvesters,” included in Book II of his Pieces for Harpsichord (Pièces de clavecin), is a captivating work whose lively, pictorial style expresses in sound scenes of rural life and the joy of harvest time.

Its explicit indications for ornamentation are also characteristic, conveying Couperin’s distinctive delicacy.

It is a recommended piece not only as an introduction to Baroque music but also for piano enthusiasts who wish to study the repertoire more deeply.

Harpsichord Pieces, Book II, Suite No. 6, No. 8: “The Insect”François Couperin9rank/position

2017 PTNA Special Grade Second Round - Arisa Fujisawa / F. Couperin: From Harpsichord Pieces, Book II, Suite No. 6, “Les Papillons” (The Butterflies)

François Couperin was a French composer active from the 17th to the 18th century, known as one of the most prominent members of the musically prolific Couperin family.

Among his works, one of the most popular pieces is The Flies, included in the Second Book of Harpsichord Pieces, published in 1717.

This piece showcases Couperin’s characteristic refinement and delicate touch, portraying rural natural scenes through music.

Its lively melody, evoking the image of tiny insects lightly dancing in the air, is sure to soothe the listener.

From ‘Pièces de clavecin’ Book II, Suite No. 6: No. 1François Couperin10rank/position

F. Couperin – Harpsichord Pieces, Book II, Suite No. 6: The Harvesters

From the Second Book of Harpsichord Pieces, Suite No.

6 (Pièces de clavecin, Second Livre, Ordre No.

6), No.

1: The Reapers (Les Moissonneurs).

Performed by Satoko Kihara (oboe), Yuki Akatsuka (piano), and Toru Kihara (tambourine), at the Tiara Koto Small Hall.

From ‘Pièces de clavecin’ Book II, Suite No. 6, No. 5François Couperin11rank/position

Couperin – “Baricades mistérieuses” – Sylviane Deferne

A mysterious world woven by the harpsichord’s elegant timbre.

This is one of the most popular pieces among Couperin’s Pièces de clavecin.

Included in the second book published in 1717, it is characterized by simple figures repeated within a narrow range, creating a mystical atmosphere where light and shadow seem to flicker.

Written in B-flat major and rich in intricate ornamentation, it demands a high level of technique from the performer.

The meaning of the title “Les Barricades Mystérieuses” is unclear, but it may be enjoyable to listen while imagining the composer’s intentions behind it.

From Pièces de clavecin, Book II, Suite No. 8: Nos. 1–7François Couperin12rank/position

Joyce Wu Couperin 8th Ordre in B minor Part1

The seven selected pieces from Couperin’s Pièces de clavecin invite you into an elegant, evocative musical world.

Titles such as “The Lady Painter” and “The Lady Poet” convey the intellectual atmosphere of the time.

The sprightly “Gavotte” and the beautifully recurring “Rondeau” are filled with a courtly grace reminiscent of courtly dance.

Woven with delicate ornamentation and expressive melodies, this collection is a jewel that distills the essence of French Baroque music.

Highly recommended for those who wish to be soothed by graceful melodies or to experience the refined tastes of the eighteenth century.

From the Second Book of Harpsichord Pieces, Suite No. 8, No. 8François Couperin13rank/position

Passacaille (VIII Ordre) – François Couperin

From the Second Book of Harpsichord Pieces, Suite No.

8 (Pièces de clavecin, Second Livre, Ordre No.

8): No.

8, Passacaille.

The harpsichord (cembalo) is performed by Lorenzo Antinori.

Recorded at the Gioachino Rossini Conservatory in Pesaro, Italy.

From the Second Book of Harpsichord Pieces, Suite No. 9, No. 1François Couperin14rank/position

François Couperin, Allemande à deux clavecins

From Pièces de clavecin, Second Book, Suite No.

9 (Ordre No.

9): No.

1, Allemande for two harpsichords (Allemande à deux clavecins).

The first piece is often performed on its own.

Performed by Evan Cully and Leonard Schmidt.