Elisabeth-Claude Jacquet de La Guerre (1665 - 1729)

Already by the age of 13, Elisabeth-Claude Jacquet de La Guerre was described as “the marvel of our century”. It was reported in a newspaper. She was born into a family of wonderful musicians. Her father and brothers were all organ players, and she apparently began entertaining at 4 years old. This Frenchwoman was not only known for her talent playing the harpsichord or her composing ability, she was actually most known for her amazing ability to improvise beautifully complex pieces at the drop of a hat.

Her talents opened quite a few doors for her career, and thus she served in the court of King Louis XIV. In 1684, Elisabeth married Marin de la Guerre, an organist. She published two separate books of keyboard solo pieces, and she also composed some operas and opera ballets. Her husband died in 1704, and Elisabeth began giving concerts in her homes which were quite well attended. This was actually her most productive time. She died 25 years later at age 64.