Musings on French Music

At our recent French Baroque Flute Meet-Up, not only was I happy to meet others who share the same love for French baroque music, but I was also really excited to know that a few people appreciate French baroque composers like François Couperin just as passionately as Maurice Ravel. I'm a big fan of Ravel, and I also think that masterful balance between meticulous crafting of composition and enchanting beauty is a hallmark to be found in these two composers, even if they're centuries apart.

French baroque music is very much based on the French language. Poets, composers, and lyricists followed a strict and thorough scheme in creating their works, which guaranteed understanding from the public.Taking that idea further, consider one of our greatest treasures, the flute solo "Syrinx" from Claude Debussy. In the above recording by Juliette Hurel, one has the rare opportunity to hear the music performed as conceived, with the original text from Gabriel Mouray recited.

​For me personally, I hear how the sonic characteristics of the language and the music compliment each other.The countless subtle nuances in both mediums are central to the performance, yet they're not there to impress or make a statement. Maybe it's like French cuisine - you're supposed to be just amazed by the flavors but can't quite figure out exactly what ingredient makes it amazing!

🇫🇷 FIND OUT MORE about French baroque music in my next online classes on Traverso Practice Net.

Registration