Role

:

Composer

Country

:

France

Birth

:

1626

Death

:

after 1699

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

Charles Mouton was a French Baroque composer and lutenist who lived from 1626 to 1710. He was born in Rouen, France, and little is known about his early life. However, it is believed that he received his musical education in Paris, where he studied under the famous lutenist Denis Gaultier. Mouton's career as a musician began in the mid-17th century, when he was appointed as a lutenist to the court of Louis XIV. He quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest lutenists of his time, and his performances were highly sought after by the aristocracy of France. Mouton's compositions were heavily influenced by the French Baroque style, which was characterized by its ornate melodies and complex harmonies. His works for the lute were particularly notable, and he is considered to be one of the most important lute composers of the Baroque era. One of Mouton's most famous works is his "Pièces de Luth," a collection of lute pieces that was published in 1680. This collection includes a variety of pieces, including preludes, allemandes, courantes, sarabandes, and gigues. The pieces are notable for their intricate harmonies and complex rhythms, and they are still performed by lutenists today. In addition to his works for the lute, Mouton also composed a number of vocal pieces, including cantatas and airs. These works were often performed at the court of Louis XIV, and they were highly regarded for their beauty and elegance. Despite his success as a composer and performer, Mouton's life was not without its challenges. In 1685, he was forced to flee France due to the persecution of Protestants that was taking place at the time. He eventually settled in Amsterdam, where he continued to compose and perform until his death in 1710. Today, Charles Mouton is remembered as one of the most important lute composers of the Baroque era. His works continue to be performed and recorded by lutenists around the world, and his influence can be heard in the works of many later composers.

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