French Music Louis XIV to the Revolution (MUSI20205)

This subject surveys and critiques the practice of music in France from the beginning of the reign of Louis XIV (1643) to the Revolution (1789). We will study leading composers, performers, and musical developments in ancien régime France, with case studies including operas, ballets, chamber music, symphonies, and sacred music. We will also examine technological developments such as the printing and publishing of music, and the design of musical instruments. The cultural practice of music in French society is situated within political, economic, and religious frameworks to examine how extra-musical factors impacted on composers, theorists, and professional and amateur musicians. Students will also be introduced to relevant issues and debates in notation, performance practice, the philosophy of music (especially French Enlightenment thought on music), and music theory.