Louis Couperin

17th-Century French Baroque Composer and Organist

Louis Couperin (c. 1626 – 1661) was a prominent French Baroque composer, virtuoso harpsichordist, and organist. He was a member of the renowned Couperin family of musicians, which included his nephew François Couperin, who would later become one of the most famous French composers of the era. Louis Couperin is known for his significant contributions to the development of French keyboard music. His works include a wealth of harpsichord pieces that were not published during his lifetime but have been highly regarded by later generations for their expressive depth and technical innovation. These compositions often feature intricate ornamentation and a masterful use of counterpoint, reflecting the style of the time while also showcasing Couperin's unique voice as a composer. Although he died relatively young, Louis Couperin's influence on the French Baroque music tradition was profound, and his works continue to be performed and recorded by early music specialists around the world.