Josse Boutmy

The patriarchal figure of the South Netherland family of musicians (excepting his father and grandfather who were both organists in Ghent). He tuaght harpsichord to the Princess of Arenberg and was the organist for the Prince of Thurn and Taxis. The major contribution Josse Boutmy left as a musical legacy were his three books of harpsichord music. Couperin's influence is apparent in the order of their movements and melodic decorations while the influence of Scarlatti and Handel are indicated respectively by the use of description and easy transitions. These characteristics are all found in Boutmy's first book while the second and third ilustrate early sonata structures and flavors of C.P.E. Bach. ~ Keith Johnson