Role

:

Composer

Country

:

France

Birth

:

1600 in Languedoc, France

Death

:

after 1669 in Languedoc, France

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Etienne Moulinié was a French composer of the Baroque era, born in 1599 in the town of Béziers in the Languedoc region of France. He was the son of a wealthy merchant and was raised in a family that valued music and the arts. From a young age, Moulinié showed a talent for music and began studying with local musicians. In 1618, Moulinié moved to Paris to continue his musical education. He studied with the renowned composer and organist Jean de Cambefort and quickly gained a reputation as a skilled musician. In 1626, he was appointed as a musician to the court of Louis XIII, where he served as a singer and lutenist. Moulinié's early works were primarily vocal pieces, including chansons and madrigals. He was heavily influenced by the Italian madrigal style, which was popular in France at the time. Moulinié's music was known for its expressive melodies and intricate harmonies, and he quickly became one of the most respected composers of his time. In 1636, Moulinié published his first collection of music, entitled "Air de cour." This collection included 35 songs for voice and lute, and it was an immediate success. The songs were widely performed and praised for their beauty and elegance. Over the next few years, Moulinié continued to compose vocal music, including several collections of chansons and airs. He also began to experiment with instrumental music, composing pieces for the lute and harpsichord. In 1647, Moulinié was appointed as the music director of the Sainte-Chapelle, a prestigious church in Paris. This position gave him the opportunity to compose music for religious services, and he quickly became known for his sacred music. His compositions were characterized by their rich harmonies and expressive melodies, and they were widely performed in churches throughout France. Moulinié's most famous work is his "Meslanges," a collection of 120 chansons and airs that he published in 1658. This collection was a culmination of his life's work, and it included some of his most beautiful and expressive music. The songs were widely performed and praised for their beauty and elegance, and they remain popular with musicians and audiences today. In addition to his work as a composer, Moulinié was also a respected music teacher. He taught music to several members of the French nobility, including the Duke of Orleans and the Count of Soissons. Moulinié died in Paris in 1676, at the age of 77. He left behind a legacy of beautiful music that continues to be performed and admired today. His music is known for its expressive melodies, rich harmonies, and elegant style, and it remains an important part of the Baroque music repertoire.

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