| French harpsichordist and composer. Date of Birth: 17.03.1665 Country: France |
Elizabeth Jacquet de la Guerre was a French harpsichordist and composer. Born into a family of musicians, she showed a talent for playing the harpsichord at a young age. At the age of five, she performed on the harpsichord in front of Louis XIV, the King of France.
In 1684, Elizabeth married Marin de la Guerre, an organist, and decided to leave the royal court. Despite leaving the court, she continued to pursue her passion for music and composition.
In 1687, Elizabeth published her first book, titled "Pieces for Harpsichord." This collection showcased her unique style and mastery of the instrument. Her compositions were well-received and established her reputation as a talented composer.
Elizabeth Jacquet de la Guerre was a prolific composer and wrote a variety of musical forms, including trios, sonatas, and cantatas. However, her most notable achievement was the opera "Cephalus and Procris" (1694). This opera holds the distinction of being the first opera written by a woman in France.
Elizabeth's compositions were highly regarded for their elegance, expressive melodies, and technical complexity. Her music showcased her deep understanding of the harpsichord and her ability to create captivating and emotionally rich compositions.
Elizabeth Jacquet de la Guerre's contributions to music and composition were significant and groundbreaking. As one of the few female composers of her time, she paved the way for future generations of women in music. Her works continue to be performed and studied today, ensuring that her legacy as a talented and influential composer lives on.