The second volume of Couperin
's Pieces for Harpsichord
does not contain a date of publication, however, it is thought to have been composed during 1716-1717, due to the address which the composer gave on his other Harpsichord compositions. Yet, the compilation remains a favourite. François Couperin
(1668-1733) is often nicknamed 'Couperin the Great' to distinguish him from other members of the musical family. Many of the composer's works have picturesque titles. Examples of this in his second volume of Pieces for Harpsichord
include, Le Moucheron (The Gnat), L'Adolescente (The Teenager) and La Fringante (The Elegant). Couperin
's moods are expressed through choices of keys, adventurous harmonies and discords. With a significant amount of variation and inspiration, Pieces for Harpsichord
are essential to the repertoire of aspiring players of the instrument.