born Nov. 10, 1668, Paris, France
died Sept. 12, 1733, Paris
French composer, harpsichordist, and organist.
At age 17 he succeeded his father as organist at the important church of St. Gervais and kept the post for some 50 years. He was later also appointed organist and harpsichordist at the court of Louis XIV . Couperin is best known for four books of harpsichord pieces containing some 220 elegant, vivacious, and richly ornamented works ( Pièces de clavecin , 171330). His other works include a collection of more than 40 organ compositions ( Pièces d'orgue , 1709); much sacred vocal music (including the Leçons de ténèbres , 0441; 1715); and several sets of chamber music (including the Concerts royaux , 1722). His Art of Playing the Harpsichord (1716) is the most valuable instrumental treatise of its time. He was the foremost French composer of his generation. His uncle Louis Couperin (162661), also organist at St. Gervais, composed more than 200 keyboard works.