Antoine Forqueray

Forqueray, born in Paris, was the first in a line of composers which included his sons Jean-Baptiste (1699–1782) and Nicolas Gilles (1703–1761) as well as his brother Michel (1681–1757).

In Louis XIV's later years the normal routine of concerts at the court of Versailles was augmented by Mme de Maintenon.

She arranged almost daily performances in her apartments by such musicians as Robert de Visée (guitar), René Descoteaux (flute), Jean-Baptise Buterne (harpsichord) as well as Forqueray.

[4] At the time of Forqueray's appointment the most renowned viol player at court was Marin Marais, who was famous for his sweet and gentle musical style.

[10] His son Jean Baptiste published his works for the viola da gamba in 1747 (two years after his father's death) together with a version for harpsichord.