François Eustache Du Caurroy

François-Eustache Du Caurroy was a French composer born in 1549, who served as Composer of the Chamber for three French kings: Henry III, Henry IV, and Louis XIII. Primarily known for his sacred music, Du Caurroy's most enduring work is his Requiem Mass, "Missa pro Defunctis," which was performed at French royal funerals for nearly 200 years. Starting his career as a chorister at Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, he climbed the ranks to become the sous-maître de la chapelle royale, or second in command of the royal chapel. His compositions were characterized by complex counterpoint and drew from both Franco-Flemish and emerging French traditions. Winning the prestigious "Puy d'Évreux" competition three times in his life, Du Caurroy's influence was significant in shaping French sacred music from the Renaissance to the early Baroque period. He died in 1609, but his musical legacy continued to influence generations thereafter.

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