Élisabeth Jacquet de La Guerre 17 March 1665 – 27 June 1729
Sonata No. 2 in B-flat
By François de Troy, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7250404
Élisabeth-Claude Jacquet was born into a family of musicians in Paris. Her father, Claude, taught her music, and at just five years old, she performed for Louis XIV at Versailles. This led to her becoming a musician in the royal court. In 1684, she married organist Marin de La Guerre. Jacquet de La Guerre was one of the few female composers of her time, composing in various forms, including sonatas and operas. Her first published work, Premier livre de pièces de clavessin, appeared in 1687. In 1694, she produced her opera, Céphale et Procris, the first opera by a woman in France. Although it received limited performances, her compositions were innovative. She blended French and Italian styles, influencing future music. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of her son and husband, she continued to compose. Her later works, such as the Cantates Bibliques, reflect her creativity. Jacquet de La Guerre’s legacy as a pioneering female composer continues to inspire musicians today.
