Louis-Claude Daquin

A French composer, organist and harpischordist who succeeded his teacher, Marchand, as organist to the Cordeliers. Daquin also defeated Rameau for a post at St. Paul's and then succeeded Dandrieu as the royal organist. In the company of such greats as Dandrieu and Rameau it is no surprise that Daquin was considered the foremost organist in France. Though his playing was superb, compositional merits were lack-luster concerning singular creative abilities. His compositions were popularized through his noels that were scored for most instruments -- and thus could be played even by amateurs. At best a certain innocent methodology was apparent in Daquin's music; as this was a conventional expectation acceptance and success were his. ~ Keith Johnson