Michel-Richard de Lalande

French composer Michel-Richard de Lalande (1657-1726) was the most prominent musician in the French court of King Louis XIV, also known as "The Sun King." Born in Paris, Lalande failed a violin audition for Lully's orchestra and made his reputation instead as a keyboardist. Coming to the King's attention through Lalande's students -- the King's own daughters -- in 1683, Lalande was among four finalists in a competition held for a position in the King's court. In 1689, Lalande was moved up to the top spot of superintendent. Lalande is most famous for his 77 grands motets and his numerous orchestral sinfonias.