The French composer, violinist and organist Michel-Richard Delalande (1657-1726) was born the 15th child of a tailor. He was organist at four Parisian churches, and harpsichord teacher at court to three princesses, the daughters of Louis XIV. In 1689, two years after the death of Jean-Baptiste Lully, Delalande became the king's musical favourite and superintendent of court music.

Delalande's extensive output includes church music commissioned by the king (including, as a highlight, his "Grand...